‘It should be outlawed!’ – Richard Keys in bizarre rant against Chelsea star Gallagher

Robin Bairner

• 17 Feb 2024 19:43 GMT
• 3 min read

Richard Keys has taken to social media during Manchester City’s Premier League clash with Chelsea to mount a campaign against one controversial trend that has gripped the Premier League this season.

The BeIn Sports presenter rose to prominence at Sky Sports but was often mocked for his outdated beliefs.

And now the veteran personality has once again brought himself under the spotlight.

Posting an image of Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, who has been in the news lately because of his uncertain future, Keys criticised the practice of players cutting holes in their socks.

“Enough of this nonsense. There’s no need for it. The Spanish have outlawed it (although Bellingham gets away with it). It’s time we did,” he posted on X.

It was a comment that was broadly mocked.

“Old man yells at cloud is your brand? I mean fair enough,” one user replied.

Another said: “You’ve got to be self-aware at this point, this is almost peak Keys.”

Why do players cut holes in their socks?

There is a simple reason why players such as Gallagher cut holes in their socks, which is that it reduces pressure on the calf muscles.

Footballers typically have big muscles in their legs which are restricted by the snug nature of the stockings that they are asked to wear.

Some claim that their socks can negatively affect blood flow and circulation as well as breathability.

The trend has become increasingly popular in the Premier League this season, with more players than ever choosing to do it for matches.

It didn’t affect Gallagher too much in Saturday’s Premier League match, with Chelsea securing a hard-earned 1-1 draw against City to throw the title race open.