Jeff Stelling discloses sad reason he no longer watches Soccer Saturday - 'I won't lie'
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Former Soccer Saturday host Jeff Stelling has revealed he no longer watches the iconic Sky Sports programme he presented for 25 years, citing a desire to avoid criticising the show.
The beloved broadcaster, who departed the programme at the end of the 2022/23 season after a remarkable 31-year association with Sky Sports, made the candid admission in his newly released autobiography.
Simon Thomas has since taken the helm of the popular football results show, which features a rotating panel of pundits.
In his autobiography "Saturday Afternoon Fever", Stelling writes that he still regularly hears his catchphrase from the public.
"In the time since I have left Sky I still hear the cries of 'Un-believable Jeff!' from passers-by and black-cab drivers," he reveals.
However, these encounters often come with a bittersweet note, as he explains: "But often it is now accompanied with 'It isn't the same anymore, Jeff'.
Jeff Stelling has revealed why he can't watch Soccer Saturday anymore
PA
"That saddens me as that was never my intention when I left Soccer Saturday."
Stelling maintains there is no animosity towards the programme he dedicated nearly three decades to.
"I won't lie. I no longer watch the show that was my life for almost three decades. Not because I feel any ill-will. Just the opposite," he explains.
The veteran broadcaster emphasises his strong connection to former colleagues, stating: "I have many friends working on the programme and I am desperate for it to succeed."
He admits that his opinionated nature means watching would likely lead to unwanted criticism.
The decision to leave Soccer Saturday was ultimately driven by health concerns and workplace struggles.
Speaking to The Guardian, Stelling revealed the toll of constant battles at Sky Sports: "Even though I'd been there a long time, I felt some of my views weren't considered at all. Every week I was fighting a battle."
The situation became so severe that he approached management directly: "This is making me unwell. I've got to step away from it."
Jeff Stelling is one of the most well-loved figures in sports broadcasting
PA
He admits feeling almost ashamed of his struggles, comparing them to his father's gruelling work in a steelworks.
Despite stepping away from Soccer Saturday, Stelling continues to maintain an active presence in football media.
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Jeff Stelling can now be found on talkSPORT
Youtube
The veteran broadcaster now works for talkSPORT and hosts a YouTube channel called 'Football's Greatest'.
Reflecting on his new ventures, Stelling remains optimistic: "I am lucky that so many people believe there is life in this old dog yet and have offered me projects.
"Not many people are still learning about and enjoying new roles at my age."
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