New Soccer Saturday host is now down to just two contenders with a clear favourite emerging

The search for the new Soccer Saturday host is now down to its final two contenders, it has been claimed.

In April, Stelling announced he would leave Soccer Saturday after 25 years at the helm of the show.

The 68-year-old reversed a decision to leave the programme last year, continuing for another 12 months, yet has now stepped away from Sky Sports after more than 30 years with the company.

Stelling, an avid Hartlepool United fan, began his career in local newspapers and radio before joining Sky in 1992.

He joined what was then known as Sports Sunday in 1994, covering the day’s matches throughout English football in the company of ex-professionals. The show, which was soon rebranded to Soccer Saturday, went on to become a fixture of Sky Sports’ football coverage.

And since Stelling announced his departure from the company, there has been much speculation as to who will inherit the iconic role.

Soccer Saturday search down to two contenders

According to The Sun, Soccer Saturday’s new host is set to be revealed in “the coming days” with the search down to “the final two” contenders for the job.

The report claims that either Caroline Barker or Simon Thomas will be the show’s new presented.

Insiders allegedly believe that Thomas is the favourite to inherit the role from Stelling, due to his experience. However, it is said to be “a close call and has come down to a choice between the two”.

Barker reportedly has a host of admirers at Sky Sports for her coverage of netball and her ability to cover multiple sports.

Should reports that the search is down to its final two options be accurate, the likes of Julian Warren have been snubbed for the role.

Stelling’s future

Last month the Telegraph claimed Stelling had entered talks with Amazon and the BBC over broadcasting roles following his departure from Sky Sports.

The publication claimed the 68-year-old has reportedly been targeted by BBC Radio 5 Live and Amazon Prime, who are keen to secure his services.

Amazon are set to broadcast Champions League matches for the first time in the UK from 2024, and Stelling would be in line to head their coverage.