Sky Sports is on the verge of announcing Jeff Stelling’s Replacement on Soccer Saturday

Simon Thomas emerges as strong candidate, challenged by Caroline Barker

Sky Sports is on the verge of announcing Jeff Stelling’s Replacement on Soccer Saturday

Simon Thomas and Caroline Barker. (Source: The Mirror)

Sky Sports is on the verge of making a significant transition as it looks to find a replacement for the well-respected sports journalist Jeff Stelling, who is stepping down 25 years after his first day of the iconic show, Soccer Saturday. After much speculation, the leading contenders for the role have been narrowed down to Simon Thomas and Caroline Barker. Both candidates bring loads of experience in broadcasting and have the potential to fill Stelling’s shoes.

Simon Thomas, who was previously mentioned as a top contender, stands as the favored option for the coveted presenting position. The selection process for the next Soccer Saturday presenter has proved challenging, with Thomas and Barker emerging as strong contenders. Sky Sports is expected to finalize its decision in the coming days. However, finding a suitable successor who will continue the show’s rich legacy of delivering top-quality football analysis will be difficult.

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50-year-old Thomas brings a wealth of experience and extensive knowledge to the table, having been a regular face on Sky Sports. He took a break from broadcasting after losing his wife in 2018. His return could mark a significant step forward in his broadcasting career.

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Caroline Barker, another strong contender, has been a familiar presence on both Sky and BBC, showcasing her expertise in football coverage. Her selection alongside Thomas makes the decision a tough one for Sky Sports, given her track record and commendable skill set.

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Simon Thomas for strong contention by Sky Sports

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Simon Thomas buckled up to replace Jeff Stelling. ( Source: The Guardian)

The departure of Jeff Stelling from Soccer Saturday marked the end of an era in sports broadcasting. Sky Sports has been actively seeking a replacement, reflecting the channel’s ongoing transformation, which has seen the departure of notable personalities such as Stelling and Graeme Souness. Souness was also mocked for his heavy bias against Paul Pogba during his time on air,

Following a stint as a freelancer, he hinted he was looking for a full-time position. Taking to LinkedIn, Thomas said, “One minute you can feel on top of the world wondering how you’re going to fit everything in; next you’re feeling that uncomfortable anxiety pondering where the next gig is going to come from. Is the rainy day fund going to run dry?”

“I’ve quickly learnt that being freelance in broadcast is not for the faint-hearted.“

As the decision draws near, Soccer Saturday prepares for additional modifications, including the relocating to a new studio. These changes align with Sky’s substantial revamp in recent months, signaling a new chapter for the iconic sports show. It is to be expected that the new show will start before the Premier League season.

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