SOCCER SATURDAY fans have been divided after seeing the show’s new-look studio.
And punters are also unhappy with the absence of Jeff Stelling as the Sky Sports programme begins without the Hartlepudlian for the first time in 25 years.
Sky SportsSoccer Saturday returned with a new-look studio[/caption]
Sky SportsSimon Thomas took over from Jeff Stelling after his 25-year stint presenting the show[/caption]
Simon Thomas began presenting the show on Saturday as the first weekend of the 2023/24 EFL season continued.
And Sky Sports have also debuted a new style of set-up in the studio with the desks, layout and graphics slightly altered.
It comes after BT Sport ditched their equivalent matchday coverage at the end of last season.
But some viewers were outraged by Sky’s changes – with many comparing it to a gameshow.
Reacting on social media, one person said: “Look like contestants on a game show ffs.”
Another added: “Soccer Saturday is finished…”
And a third replied: “This new set/studio is an abomination. Turned into the BT Sport version.
“Feel like they’re about to do a game show and smash their buzzers.”
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Sky SportsStelling departed Soccer Saturday at the end of last season[/caption]
However, others defended the new-look approach.
One said: “Seen a lot of negativity about the new Soccer Saturday lineup. I think @SimonThomasTV is doing a cracking job and studio is a look towards the future!”
And a second reacted: “@SimonThomasTV superb intro and energy on what’s going to be a very tough #SoccerSaturday gig.
“Great to have you in the hot seat. Enjoy every moment! Keep a good mix of football discussion and humour.”