Aussie coach apologises over sexist remark

'Women should shut up in public,' according to the Socceroos head honcho

Australia coach Holger Osieck has apologised over an alleged sexist remark he made after the 4-0 win over Jordan in a World Cup qualifying match in Melbourne on Tuesday.

The German-born coach had just seen his side move up to second in Asian qualifying Group B when he quipped “women should shut up in public” to journalists.

Osieck was taking his seat at a press conference following the game when he jokingly accused a female Football Australia official of ordering him around.

Osieck then said something in German, before translating it as “women should shut up in public. I say it to my wife at home, it is a private one, OK.”

He added: “And you record that one as well? I am going to be the darling of all Australian wives.”

On Wednesday Osieck tried to downplay the remarks, claiming they had been made off the record.

He told a media conference: “I got information it created waves. That was not the intent. To everyone offended, I sincerely apologise.

“It was off the record and … a complete misunderstanding. It was more meant as a joke. There was no seriousness in it.

“If my wife knows I’ll probably be in big trouble when I get home.”