MATCH of the Day fans are convinced Ian Wright has quit the long-running football show to take part in a reality TV programme.
The Arsenal legend, 60, stunned fans yesterday when he announced he was leaving the BBC highlights show after 26 years as a pundit.
Ian Wright sensationally quit Match of the Day yesterdayBBC
TwitterThe Arsenal legend pictured with Gary Lineker (left) and Alan Shearer[/caption]
BBCCraig Revel Horwood [left] could be leaving Strictly, according to fans[/caption]
Now some have speculated he will join Strictly Come Dancing next – perhaps even as a judge.
One person commented on X: “Leaving MOTD and @CraigRevHorwood sounding like he’s going to quit Strictly. Job swap?”
Another said: “’Ultimately, it’s time to do a few more different things with my Saturdays.’ Strictly 2024 then!”
A third wrote: “Please say that means you’ll do Strictly next year.”
Craig broke down in tears during Saturday night’s Strictly final following Ellie Leach‘s show dance with Vito Coppola, prompting viewers and body language expert Judi James to speculate he will be stepping down.
She told the Mirror: “Craig was openly tearful and overwhelmed at times. Tears might flow like Niagara on Strictly but Craig’s were authentic and fans are right to wonder what was prompting them.
“His verbal messages gave clues that he was being nostalgic and sentimental. He said he’d been thinking back to the first show and how far it had progressed, which can imply someone is leaving a show, taking one final look back and seeing it as a whole, rather than as ongoing.”
Meanwhile Wrighty has been a regular on MOTD alongside host Gary Lineker and fellow pundit Alan Shearer since hanging up his boots.
The ex-England striker posted a statement that read: “After my debut show whilst still a player in 1997 and many more memorable years, I’ll be stepping back from BBC MOTD at the end of this season.
“I feel very privileged to have had such an incredible run on the most iconic football show in the world.”
“Anyone that knows my story knows how much the show has meant to me since I was young boy. MOTD is my Holy Grail.
“On my first ever show, I told Des Lynam, ‘This is my Graceland’. It will always be my Graceland and I will always be watching.”
He continued: “I’m stepping back having made great friends and many great memories.
“This decision has been coming for a while, maybe my birthday earlier this year fast tracked it a little, but ultimately it’s time to do a few more different things with my Saturdays.
“I’m really looking forward to my last months on the show and covering what will hopefully be an amazing Premier League title race.”
Wright retired from playing in 2000 and began working as a regular pundit two years later and has enjoyed two spells on Match of the Day.
The first was from 2002 until 2008 and then he returned in 2015.
Back in May this year, Wright also made history when he appeared alongside Shaun Wright-Phillips as they became the first father and son punditry team to appear on the show.
Head of BBC Sport content Philip Bernie said: “Ian has been a wonderful star player on MOTD since his first appearance over 20 years ago.
“His insight, wit and warmth have richly entertained and informed all those watching him.
“We will miss his unique style and presence when he goes at the end of this season, but we will be sure to give him the send-off he deserves.”
An emotional Lineker tweeted: “It has been an absolute pleasure and privilege to work alongside you, Ian. One of my favourite people on the planet. Farewell my friend. ”
Shearer added: “See you in 3 hours. I’ll give you a big hug!!! ”
Piers Morgan said: “Congrats on a magnificent run, Legend.. and on quitting at the very top of your punditry game. We’ll miss your smart analysis, passion and mischievous laugh.”
ARSENAL NEWS LIVE: Stay up to date with all the latest transfer news from the Emirates
BBCWright pictured with Des Lynam and Trevor Brooking on his debut appearance[/caption]
TwitterWright made history when he worked alongside his son Shaun Wright-Phillips on MOTD[/caption]