Sky Soccer Saturday pundits: Who has replaced Matt Le Tissier, Phil Thompson and Charlie Nicholas this season?
THE new season is here – and it’s all change in the Soccer Saturday studio.
With no fans allowed into grounds for the start of the Premier League campaign, many of us will watching the results roll in with Jeff and the gang on SSN.
But there’s a host of new faces set to be featuring in the popular Sky Sports programme this campaign, with Matt Le Tissier, Phil Thompson and Charlie Nicholas all missing.
Why aren’t Matt Le Tissier, Phil Thompson and Charlie Nicholas on Soccer Saturday?
All former players, the trio were a big hit with viewers and the announcement of their departure was a shock to many fans.
The broadcaster decided to sack Le Tissier, Thompson and Nicolas – who between them have 50 years broadcasting experience – to bring in a host of fresh talent.
Confirming their decision for the shake-up, Sky told SunSport: “We are changing some parts of our football coverage.
“Matt, Charlie and Phil have done a great job for us over the years, and they will leave us with our sincere thanks and very best wishes.”
Jeff Stelling appeared gutted by the news, writing on Twitter: “One of my saddest days ever at Sky Sports with the departure of three of my best mates. They have been part of a team that for me was the best.”
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Who are the new pundits?
As well as on Soccer Saturday, Sky have revamped their punditry line-up ahead of the 2020/21 season.
Roy Keane, Micah Richards and Patrice Evra will be regulars throughout the new campaign, alongside Jamie Carragher, Gary Neville, Graeme Souness and Jamie Redknapp.
On Soccer Saturday, the new faces beside Jeff are former Wycombe strongman Adebayo Akinfenwa, Tim Sherwood, Robbie Fowler and Joleon Lescott.
They will be joined by Paul Merson, Chris Kamara, Sue Smith, Clinton Morrison, Alan McInally and Glen Johnson.
Sky Sports Director of Football Gary Hughes said: “With fans currently unable to attend matches in person, it is imperative we provide the best possible TV and digital coverage to our audiences.
“Confirming Patrice, Micah and Roy to add to our existing line-up of award-winning pundits is brilliant news and we will strive to take the game closer to fans than ever before with increased live action, highlights and analysis.”