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      in Soccer

      Five replacements for Jeff Stelling including Laura Woods after Sky Sports legend announces he will quit Soccer Saturday

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      SKY SPORTS will have the tough task of replacing legendary presenter Jeff Stelling after he announced his plans to quit.The 68-year-old broadcaster revealed his decision live on air and received rapturous applause from the pundits in the studio and the film crew behind the camera.
      Sky Sports will have to replace Soccer Saturday host Jeff StellingCredit: Enterprise
      His final broadcast – which will no doubt be watched by thousands of long-time fans of Soccer Saturday – will be on May 28, ending his 25 years in the role.
      Stelling – who is beloved by footy fans for his over-the-top reactions and way with words – joined Sky back in 1992.
      The Hartlepool United superfan intended to leave his role after the end of the 2021/22 campaign but opted to stay on for another season.
      Here, SunSport looks at five candidates who could fill his boots.
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      1. Laura Woods
      Laura Woods is one of the best broadcasters aroundCredit: Splash
      Laura Woods would be an excellent choice to replace Stelling, given her current prevalence in the sports world.
      Fans love the broadcaster for her quick wit, and she would have no trouble dealing with the programme’s cast pundits such as Tim Sherwood and Paul Merson.
      Woodsy is currently working at talkSPORT along with a few other broadcasters but does have previous experience working for Sky.
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      2. Micah Richards
      Micah Richards has built a big reputation as a pundit since retiring from playingCredit: PA
      The former Manchester City defender is a fan favourite for his sense of humour and he could bring that side of himself to the long-standing show.
      Most read in Football
      Richards does work with Sky already as well as a number of other broadcasters, which he puts down to rejecting a massive £100,000-per-week contract at City during his career.
      Richards could also make some good viewing if he strikes up similar friendships with the show’s current pundits, just like he has done with former Manchester United hardman Roy Keane.
      3. Mark Chapman
      Mark Chapman could also be considered by Sky SportsCredit: PA
      Mark Chapman would also be a solid choice for Sky Sports to take over the role.
      The broadcaster has done a stellar job of hosting Match of the Day 2 as well as stepping in on Match of the Day when needed since 2014.
      Chapman also brings a wealth of knowledge from outside of football, having often provided insight into the NFL, golf and snooker.
      4. Julian Warren
      Julian Warren has worked as the presenter on Soccer Saturday beforeCredit: INSTAGRAM – @julianwarren
      Julian Warren is a familiar face to sports fans in the UK as he works as a senior presenter on Sky Sports News.
      He is also the host of Soccer Special, which would help him ease into the void left by Stelling.
      He has already filled in for Stelling on Soccer Saturday and despite having previously admitted to getting “nervous” about the job, he always wants to do the “best job possible”, as he revealed in an interview with Obstructed View.
      5. David Jones
      David Jones is a consistent broadcaster on Sky SportsCredit: PA
      Currently, the presenter of Monday Night Football and Super Sunday, David Jones is one of the top hosts at Sky Sports.
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      He has already worked alongside the likes of Jamie Carragher, Graeme Souness, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Roy Keane so would be perfectly comfortable alongside the Soccer Saturday cast.
      Plus his Saturdays are already free with his current regular work schedule. More

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      in Soccer

      Jeff Stelling to quit as Sky Sports Soccer Saturday host at end of season after 25 years in job

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      JEFF STELLING has announced he’s stepping down as Soccer Saturday host – after a whopping 25 YEARS at the helm.The 68-year-old’s final broadcast – which will no doubt be watched by thousands of long-time fans of the show – will be on May 28.
      Jeff Stelling will retire from Soccer Saturday duty at the end of the seasonCredit: Sky Sports
      Jeff leaves the Soccer Saturday desk after 25 YEARS of serviceCredit: BSKYB
      An emotional Stelling announced his departure live on air and received rapturous applause from the pundits in the studio and the film crew behind the camera.
      He said: “I’ve been at Sky for more than 30 years and loved every moment of my time as part of the Soccer Saturday team.
      “It is now the right time to move on and give Sky Sports viewers a break from my relentless rants, bad gags and over-the-top celebrations of Hartlepool United goals.
      “It’s been a lot of fun – for me at least!”
      Footie fans were quick to react to the news of Stelling’s departure.
      One tweeted: “Sad to see Jeff Stelling stepping down at Sky Sports.
      “An absolute titan. Simply won’t be the same without him.”
      Another said: “Gutted Jeff Stelling is leaving Soccer Saturday. He was fantastic in it. End of an era.”
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      And another said: “Soccer AM and now Jeff Stelling. Saturdays won’t be the same anymore on Sky.”
      Sky Sports Director of Football, Gary Hughes, paid a heartfelt tribute to the outgoing Stelling shortly after his imminent departure was announced.
      He said: “After a brilliant 30-plus year career at Sky, including over 25 years as the much-loved host of Soccer Saturday, Jeff Stelling is leaving Sky Sports at the end of the current football season.
      “Jeff has been synonymous with Saturday afternoon football for decades, exciting and enthusing football fans everywhere.
      “His unique broadcasting ability and passion for the game has made Soccer Saturday an unmissable fixture for fans and has won him a multitude of awards.
      “Jeff has been synonymous with Saturday afternoon football for decades.
      Stelling’s over-the-top reactions to his beloved Hartlepool scoring were beloved by Soccer Saturday fansCredit: SKY SPORTS
      His hijinks and banter also made the showCredit: SKY SPORTS
      “Exciting and enthusing football fans everywhere.
      “His unique broadcasting ability and passion for the game has made Soccer Saturday an unmissable fixture for fans and has won him a multitude of awards.
      “He will be sorely missed.
      “Sky Sports will give him the great send-off his remarkable and enduring contribution deserves before he leaves us at the end of May to spend more Saturdays with his beloved Hartlepool United.”

      Stelling – who is beloved by footy fans for his over-the-top reactions and way with words – joined Sky all the way back in 1992.
      The Hartlepool United superfan intended to leave his role after the end of the 2021/22 season but opted to stay on for another season. More

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      in Soccer

      Awkward moment Millwall star Zian Flemming is told ‘watch the language’ by Sky Sports reporter after swearing on live TV

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      MILLWALL match-winner Zian Flemming was warned about his language live on TV after swearing.The Dutch midfielder even asked “Can I not say that?” after he was reprimanded by a Sky Sports reporter for saying “s***”.
      There was nothing controversial about the way Flemming hit the penalty winner and celebrated as Millwall cemented fifth spotCredit: PA
      Zian Flemming got intro trouble when he tried explaining how much victory meant for the promotion-seeking Lions
      Flemming seemed unfazed as he continued to smile during the interview – amid laughter in the background.
      That’s partly because he was in buoyant mood as the Lions had climbed back into the Championship play-off zone with a 3-2 win at Blackpool.
      Victory lifted Millwall two places to fifth but confirmed relegation for the Tangerines.
      Flemming started to say in the post-match chat: “When you’ve had such a s*** record…”
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      He was immediately told: “Careful with the language, please.”
      The 24-year-old responded with: “Can I not say that..?”
      His interviewer then not only confirmed he could not do so but added: “POOR record, I think you can get away with.”
      One bemused fan posted: “Championship – always delivers.”
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      Flemming’s 75th minute penalty had finally seen off the Seagulls in a thriller.
      Tom Bradshaw twice put Millwall in front but Blackpool levellers came via a Jerry Yates spot-kick and Lewis Fiorini’s incredible long-ranger.
      Flemming then won it from the spot… before getting in his spot of bother off the pitch.  More

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      in Boxing

      Devin Haney vs Vasiliy Lomachenko: Date, UK start time, live stream, TV channel, undercard for huge lightweight bout

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      DEVIN HANEY’s big clash with Vasiliy Lomachenko is just weeks away – and we have all the details on how to catch the action. Undisputed lightweight champ Haney is up against the toughest test of his career in Loma, who previously held three of his opponent’s belts.
      Devin Haney holds the WBA, WBO, WBC and IBF lightweight titles
      Vasiliy Lomachenko beat Jamaine Ortiz on points in his last outing
      Lomachenko lost the titles to Teofimo Lopez, who ended up dropping them to George Kambosos Jr.
      Haney eventually beat Kambosos Jr twice to gain all four trinkets, setting up a huge Las Vegas showdown with Ukrainian Lomachenko, who has been chasing an undisputed fight for years.
      The 35-year-old beat Jamaine Ortiz last time out and stared down Haney in the ring after.
      But the pair will finally square off with their gloves on in the coming weeks, with the winner touted for a huge bout against Gervonta Davis.

      When is Haney vs Lomachenko?

      Haney’s big clash with Lomachenko will take place on Saturday, May 20.
      The main event will get going from around 4.30am UK time on Sunday, May 21.
      Haney vs Lomachenko will take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

      What channel is it on and can it be live streamed?

      Haney vs Lomachenko will be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Arena in the UK.
      You can live stream the action from the NOW TV or Sky Go app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.

      Haney vs Lomachenko full card

      Devin Haney vs. Vasiliy Lomachenko; For Haney’s IBF, WBA, WBC and WBO world lightweight titles
      Juno Nakatani vs. Andrew Maloney; For the vacant WBO world super flyweight title
      Raymond Muratalla vs. Jeremia Nakathila; Lightweight
      Oscar Valdez vs. Adam Lopez; Super featherweight

      What has been said?
      “It’s definitely tougher for him now, I’m a much better fighter than I was four years ago, much stronger, more mature, more experienced in the ring,” Haney said.
      Most read in Boxing
      “I know he is a tough competitor, he’s going to prepare well for the fight but I will be the better man that night.”
      “The better opposition, the better I perform and I will show that. He is the best guy on paper. I will show that I’m above him as well.
      “He was the guy on the No 1 pound-for-pound list, and eventually I will be that.” More

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      in Soccer

      Fans notice subtle change to BT Sport’s Premier League coverage and they say it’s ‘great news’

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      VIEWERS of BT Sports were delighted with a change to their usual programming last night.The broadcaster was screening the crunch Premier League title showdown between Manchester City and Arsenal.
      Peter Walton was not in the hot-seat for BT Sport last night as usualCredit: BT Sport
      Fans noticed the change during coverage of Man City’s win over Arsenal
      The Cityzens thrashed the Gunners 4-1 as a brace from Kevin de Bruyne and strikes from John Stones and Erling Haaland delivered a hammer blow to the North London club’s championship chances at the Etihad.
      However, those tuning in to the action appeared to be delighted that BT Sport had swapped ex-Prem referee Peter Walton in favour of Mark Clattenburg as the go-to guy for officiating decisions.
      After De Bruyne’s early opener, viewers quickly took to Twitter after being surprised when Clattenburg was brought in to discuss it.
      “BT Sport have sacked off Peter Walton for Clattenburg. Best news of the week,” declared one.
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      Another wrote: “Peter Walton has been binned off BT? Great news.”
      While another said: “BT Sport have f***ed Peter Walton off in favour of Mark Clattenburg for the biggest game of the season.”
      But not everyone was happy to see the diverse Walton, who Sun Sport has learned was absent due to a long-standing personal engagement, replaced.
      One tweeted BT Sport asking: “Mark Clattenburg?! Where’s Peter Walton?”
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      As another said: “Excuse me, where is Peter Walton?”
      Walton has been BT Sports’ main guy for discussing and analysing officiating decisions for several years.
      The 61-year-old refereed games in the Premier League between 2003-2012 as well as the 2008 FA Community Shield.
      Walton was also absent for the channel last week as they covered City’s Champions League quarter-final second leg away at Bayern Munich.
      Ex-Prem ref Mark Clattenburg stepped in for himCredit: Getty More

    • 250 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      BBC and ITV pundits including Roy Keane and Ian Wright warned they will NOT be getting pay rise next season

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      FOOTBALL pundits across BBC Sport and ITV Sport have been warned they will not be getting a pay rise next season.Manchester United icon Roy Keane works for ITV across domestic and international football.
      Roy Keane works for both Sky Sports and ITVCredit: Getty
      Ian Wright works for both BBC and ITV across various competitionsCredit: BBC
      And Arsenal legend Ian Wright spreads himself across more than one outlet, turning up on BBC’s Match of the Day and ITV’s coverage of England games and cup competitions.
      But no pay increases will be handed out across both terrestrial channels next season.
      The cap comes after reports of Sky Sports axing broadcasters from their coverage.
      Soccer AM’s 30-year stint was brought to an end last month… and they may not stop there.
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      There have been reports of long-time reporter Geoff Shreeves getting the boot.
      A Sky Spokesperson said: “Our coverage of football is evolving to reflect the changing habits of our viewers and ensures we continue to deliver the best experience for customers.
      “Our proposal would mean the creation of new roles, and the closing of some existing roles, and we are currently in a consultation period with our people.”
      Long-serving studio analysts Phil Thompson, Charlie Nicholas and Matt Le Tissier were axed in 2020 as Sky looked to go in a new direction.
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      This led to presenter Jeff Stelling announcing his intention to leave at the end of the 2022 season, before reversing the decision later on.
      Meanwhile, BT Sport will be renamed TNT Sports following a merger with Warner Bros Discovery.
      WBD also own Eurosport, and under the merger both BT Sport and Eurosport are set to disappear from TV screens.
      BT is scrapping its popular Score football show on Saturday afternoons, which is presented by Jules Breach and Darrell Currie.
      TNT Sports will incorporate the live offerings from both BT Sport and Eurosport.
      WBD acquired BT Sport last year in a deal reportedly worth £633million.
      That means Premier League games will be shown under a new channel from next season, as BT Sport’s deal to show games runs until 2025. More

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      in Soccer

      Top 10 most iconic lines of commentary in football history including ‘Agueroooo’ and Man Utd 1999 Treble moment

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      “IT GETS better and better and better” – or does it? Take this quiz on iconic football commentary moments to find out if you’re worthy of a seat in the commentary box.
      Sergio Aguero’s title-winning goal was brilliantly accompanied by Martin TylerCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Gordon Banks denied Pele with that famous save at the 1970 World CupCredit: Reuters
      Lines like “they think it’s all over…”, “the Crazy Gang has beaten the Culture Club,” and “AGUEROOOOOOOO!” are etched in the memory of fans of the beautiful game.
      But do you know who uttered these special words or when they said them? Put your knowledge to the test.
      CopyBet.com, which developed the quiz, also commissioned a poll of 2,000 adults who watch football – and found John Motson is their favourite commentator of all time.
      A spokesperson said “We’ve been blessed with some amazing commentators over the years and sadly we’ve lost some of the true greats in recent years.
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      “For many of us, our memories of particular moments are likely entwined with the lines of commentary.
      “It’s hard not to think of that winning goal from Aguero and not hear the words of Martin Tyler or England winning the World Cup and not hear ‘they think it’s all over…’”
      Fittingly these two lines of commentary were voted as the most iconic by those polled – Kenneth Wolstenholme’s came top followed by Martin Tyler’s “Aguerooooooo!!”.
      While third spot went to Bjørge Lillelien’s “Maggie Thatcher your boys took a hell of a beating” from Norway vs England in 1981.
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      The study also revealed who the dream football broadcast team would be made up of.
      In addition to featuring commentary from John Motson, it would feature punditry from Alan Shearer, Ian Wright and Roy Keane – and would be presented by Gary Lineker.
      The study also revealed what characteristics make for a winning commentator, an entertaining pundit, and a game-changing presenter.
      For commentators, player knowledge (33 per cent), impartiality (26 per cent), and the ability to create an engaging narrative (24 per cent) are important.
      With pundits, having a solid understanding of the game (36 per cent) is key, as is not being afraid to disagree with colleagues (28 per cent), and an unbiased approach (26 per cent).
      When it comes to presenters, knowledge (59 per cent) also appeals to viewers, followed by an ability to keep conversation flowing (38 per cent) and good banter (36 per cent).
      And the topics fans especially enjoy their favourite experts discussing include controversial decisions (32 per cent), analysis of individual players (25 per cent), and good attacking moments (22 per cent).
      Paul Gascoigne’s superb free-kick against Arsenal was greeted with superb commentaryCredit: PA:Press Association
      Wimbledon beat Liverpool in the 1988 FA Cup finalCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Part of their fondness for particular pundits, presenters, and commentators also appears to be due to familiarity – 62 per cent said watching or listening to coverage is like spending time with mates.
      While 62 per cent also said their favourite football broadcaster takes their mind off worries they might have.
      Carried out through OnePoll, the study found those polled listen to two hours and seven minutes of football coverage on the radio a week and watch three hours 28 minutes on TV.
      Their top three favourite shows are BBC’s Match of the Day, Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday, and the soon-to-be departed Soccer AM – also a Sky Sports show.
      And the most popular broadcast network for football fans is Sky Sports, followed by the BBC and BT.
      A spokesperson for CopyBet.com added: “Football coverage has evolved quite significantly over the years.

      “It’s much more in-depth and detailed in the modern era – especially among networks which are able to air hours of matches and analysis.
      “And while that’s enhanced the viewer experience, one constant has been the personalities involved and the chemistry particular pundits, presenters, and commentators have with one another.”
      Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Ian Wright are among the nation’s favourite on TVCredit: BBCBest lines, commentators, presenters and pundits

      TOP 10 MOST ICONIC LINES OF COMMENTARY

      “Some people are on the pitch, they think it’s all over, it is now!” (Kenneth Wolstenholme – England vs West Germany 1966 World Cup Final)
      “Manchester City are still alive here. Balotelli…Agueroooooooooooooooo!!!! I swear you’ll never see anything like this ever again!” (Martin Tyler – Manchester City vs QPR 2012)
      “Maggie Thatcher your boys took a hell of a beating” (Bjørge Lillelien – Norway vs England 1981)
      “Is Gascoigne going to have a crack? He is you know. Oh, I say! Brilliant! That is schoolboys own stuff!” (Barry Davies – Arsenal vs Spurs 1991 FA Cup semi-finals)
      “The Crazy Gang has beaten the Culture Club” (John Motson – Wimbledon vs Liverpool 1986 FA Cup final)
      “What a save, what a save! Gordon Banks!” (David Coleman – England vs Brazil 1970 World Cup)
      “And Solskjaer has won it!” (Clive Tyldesley – Manchester United vs Bayern Munich 1999 Champions League Final)
      “Oh, this is getting better and better and better. One, two, three for Michael Owen!” (John Motson – England vs Germany 2001)
      “Oh you beauty! What a hit, son! What a hit!” (Andy Gray – Liverpool vs Olympiacos 2005 Champions League)
      “Roma have risen from their ruins! Manolas, the Greek God in Rome! The unthinkable unfolds before our eyes! This was not meant to happen! This could not happen! THIS IS HAPPENING!” (Peter Drury – Roma vs Barcelona 2018 Champions League quarter final)

      TOP 5 BEST COMMENTATORS

      John Motson – 32 per cent
      Brian Moore – 14 per cent
      David Coleman – 13 per cent
      Clive Tyldesley – 11 per cent
      Martin Tyler – 11 per cent

      TOP 5 BEST PRESENTERS

      Gary Lineker – 34 per cent
      Jeff Stelling – 24 per cent
      Des Lynam – 21 per cent
      Brian Moore – 12 per cent
      Gabby Logan – 12 per cent

      TOP 5 BEST PUNDITS

      Alan Shearer – 16 per cent
      Ian Wright – 16 per cent
      Roy Keane – 14 per cent
      Gary Neville – 14 per cent
      Ally McCoist – 12 per cent More

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      in Soccer

      Fans in stitches at Danny Rose’s hilarious shocked reaction to Hugo Lloris giving interview after Newcastle defeat

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      FANS have been left in stitches after Danny Rose’s hilarious reaction to finding out that Hugo Lloris had stepped up to be interviewed after Tottenham’s 6-1 loss to Newcastle. Spurs were blown away by the Toon with the scoreline at an incredible 5-0 after just 21 minutes.
      Danny Rose was left shocked after finding out Hugo Lloris was going to be interviewed after the Newcastle defeatCredit: Sky Sports
      Hugo Lloris apologised to Tottenham fansCredit: Reuters
      Club captain Lloris put himself forward for an interview with Sky Sports after the humiliation to the visible surprise of Rose.
      The former Tottenham left-back’s eyes bulged as he looked startled as presenter Dave Jones introduced the goalkeeper.
      Fans found it hilarious, one said: “Rose is so funny.”
      Another replied: “What a hero.”
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      A third reacted: “Danny Rose is class.”
      Lloris conceded five goals before he was subbed off at half-time with an injury.
      He apologised to Spurs fans and admitted his team lacked fight.
      Rose spent 14 years at the club, seven under the captaincy of Lloris.
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      The 29-timed capped England international is currently a free agent after leaving Watford in September.
      Therefore, he cheekily offered himself to Newcastle boss Eddie Howe while he was on punditry duty.
      Rose also left fans laughing at his unique outfit, which has seen him compared to Cheryl Cole.
      He also slammed Spurs’ horror performance and joked that he has no idea how he remains unemployed after witnessing the defending on show.
      There is less to laugh at for interim boss Cristian Stellini, who could be axed after showdown talks. More