Michael Strahan’s FOX Sports colleague Jay Glazer has given a staunch reaction to the national anthem controversy surrounding the former NFL star.

The New York Giants legend was one of six analysts on FOX’s broadcast on an aircraft carrier surrounded by US military personnel from Naval Base San Diego as they honored Veteran’s Day. During the playing of the national anthem, Strahan sparked controversy as he chose not to put his hand on his heart.

As Star-Spangled Banner played, the camera panned to the analysts, with Strahan the only one to have not made the gesture. Many viewers were left outraged, perceiving the reaction to have insulted the military.

The network faced calls to fire the Hall of Famer but Glazer gave a passionate backing of his colleague. “I’ve just seen the criticism of @michaelstrahan. Let me tell you this, I don’t know if I have a friend who is more proud of his military roots than Michael,” Glazer began.

“Growing up on an army base constantly talking about what he learned from his dad Major Gene Strahan and how his time there shaped him. I heard it CONSTANTLY, still do!”

Glazer claimed that Strahan has given generously to military causes. “But also, with no fanfare i personally saw him donate thousands of dollars of clothes to veterans, including many homeless veterans as well clothes for veterans to go on job interviews,” he added.

“I know these days people want to be angry fast but maybe first, how is THIS for a novel idea. ASK him if he’s protesting something. When you protest you want people to know, don’t ya?” Glazer asked.

Jay Glazer - Michael Strahan

Jay Glazer gave a passionate defense of Michael Strahan

“He was NOT, just got caught up in how beautiful the whole moment was during the anthem and didn’t think about it. Ask the dude before forming an angry mob, but also maybe find out alllll he’s done for our veterans over the years.”

Strahan posted a message of admiration for veterans and active service members on his Instagram and added a photograph of his ex-military father. “Thank you to all veterans and active service members who courageously risk their lives to protect us every day,” he wrote.

“Your selfless service is beyond measure. Just as I honor my father, I keep all of you in my thoughts each and every day as we would not have the safety and freedoms we cherish without you. Thank You.”

FOX Sports were said to have come under pressure to address the incident and condemn Strahan’s actions, while others called for him to be fired from the broadcast. However, the network will not fine or punish Strahan, with a source close to the Daily Mail saying that the Super Bowl XLII champion made an “honest mistake”.