Soccer Saturday fans fume at new-look show without Jeff Stelling

Soccer Saturday fans are divided after witnessing the new look show for the 2023/23 campaign without Jeff Stelling.

The start of the new season and first Saturday of the 2023/23 campaign marks the first showing of the programme without fan favourite Jeff Stelling for 25 years - a change which has seemingly divided viewers.

His successor, Simon Thomas, took charge for the first time today as Sky Sports unveiled both a new style and studio. He was also joined by a panel consisting of Paul Merson, Clinton Morrison, Michael Dawson, Sue Smith and Neil Lennon.

Speaking ahead of his first day in the role, Thomas addressed viewers by saying: "It's a new season, we have new managers, new players and there's a bit of a new feel as you might already have seen to Soccer Saturday.

"One or two tweaks here and there. We have a brand new studio, a new look but hopefully everything you still love about this terrific show.

Soccer Saturday's new layout

"It is an absolute honour to host this brilliant show! If I can do half the job that the legend Jeff Stelling did over the last 25 years, I will have done something right!"

Fans were quick to react to the new changes on social media, with one saying: "Yellow graphic needs to go at bottom. Size of text on right side needs to be bigger. Studio looks like a game show and not a good one. I'll watch if there's banter and some entertainment but must admit bit stale."

While another one added: "Great start from Simon. Shame 60% of the panel is woeful."

Simon Thomas presenting Soccer Saturday (via Sky Sports)

However, some fans did offer some more positive feedback on the different format. 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!"

While another added: "Great to have you in the hot seat. Enjoy every moment! Keep a good mix of football discussion and humour."

Former host Stelling reacted to the news of longtime favourite Bianca Westwood Dickie Davis leaving the show.

He said: "Such a great girl, such a great reporter. I have to say that of course as we are doing 30+ theatre tour in Jan and Feb. But I also mean it."