16 July 2023 , 18:00
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Sky Sports have announced Simon Thomas as the new presenter of Soccer Saturday.
He will succeed Jeff Stelling after the legendary host stepped down from the role at the end of last season. Thomas first started working for Sky Sports in 2005 and insists he "cannot wait" to start hosting the broadcaster's flagship football results show.
Sky Sports have also announced that Mike Dean will be joining the Soccer Saturday panel to offer his thoughts on key refereeing decisions. The popular official has left the Premier League's video assistant referee (VAR) team to start his television career.
Thomas and Dean will be joined in a new-look Soccer Saturday studio by existing pundits Paul Merson, Clinton Morrison, Michael Dawson, Sue Smith, Kris Boyd and Tim Sherwood. Julian Warren will continue to host midweek editions of Soccer Special.
Thomas stepped down from his role with Sky Sports in 2018 following the death of his wife Gemma. "When I left Sky in 2018 for very personal reasons; it was always said the door would be open if I ever wanted to return," said Thomas, who married his current spouse Derrina in 2021.
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"I never expected that Gillette Soccer Saturday would be the door that would open. Being asked to present this iconic show and follow in the footsteps of Jeff Stelling, an absolute giant of sports broadcasting, is a massive honour and one I simply cannot wait to get started on."
Mike Dean is joining Sky Sports (GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)Do you think Sky Sports have made the right decision? Let us know in the comments below!
Sky Sports' director of football Gary Hughes added: "Simon left Sky at the top of his profession as a Premier League presenter, delivering the biggest games to big audiences. It’s brilliant to have someone with his experience and credibility back on the team to take Gillette Soccer Saturday into a new era."
Dean enjoyed a 22-year Premier League career and was a FIFA-listed referee between 2003 and 2013. He refereed several big games during his time on the pitch, including the 2008 FA Cup final, the 2011 League Cup final and the 2006 Championship play-off final.
Dean said: "It feels a bit surreal to be a part of such a well-loved show, but I can’t wait to join the team. With all the technology available in today’s game, I think it’s crucial that fans understand why decisions have been made, even if they don’t agree with them!"
Hughes added: "We’re also delighted to welcome Mike to Sky Sports. He was one of the game’s most well- known and well-liked referees.
"In his role he'll be explaining the big calls and decisions from his unique perspective, providing fans of Gillette Soccer Saturday and our Premier League coverage with greater analysis, insight and understanding."
Dean is the first former referee to be given a full-time role on the Soccer Saturday panel. As for Thomas, he faces the challenge of following Stelling's 28-year spell in the hot seat. It's now up to Thomas to prove he can succeed the fan favourite.