Sky Sports search for Jeff Stelling replacement 'as trio are interviewed'

Sky Sports' Adam Smith could replace Jeff Stelling as the host of 'Soccer Saturday'.

Jeff announced on Saturday (29.04.23) that he is leaving Sky Sports' weekly football show at the end of the season after 25 years at the helm, and 'The Saturday Social' host Adam - who is known as Smithy - is said to have been interviewed for the post this week.

Julian Warren - who steps in for Jeff on 'Soccer Saturday' during international breaks - and broadcaster Mark Chapman are also said to have been interviewed about the job.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "Smithy is the frontrunner to take on Jeff’s role.

"There are a lot of people behind the scenes who are batting for him to get the job.

"'Soccer Saturday' is a tough gig and it needs a solid broadcaster who is quick on their feet.

"Stepping into Jeff’s shoes is a massive responsibility but plenty of his colleagues think Smithy is the right person for the job."

But talks about Jeff's replacement are said to be "ongoing".

Another source told the publication: "No decisions have been made yet on Soccer Saturday and discussions are ongoing."

Jeff confirmed last weekend his final 'Soccer Saturday' episode will be on May 28th, and his announcement was greeted by applause from the pundits on the panel.

He later said in a statement: “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."

Sky Sports’ director of football Gary Hughes said: “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 had announced in October 2021 he would be leaving the show, but later agreed to stay on for the 2022/23 season.