Former Arsenal and England defender Lee Dixon will be behind the microphone again as the Three Lions return to World Cup action against Panama on Saturday night, broadcast live on ITV. Thomas Tuchel's side are looking to finish top of Group L after a goalless draw with Ghana, following a 4-2 win against Croatia.
Dixon's Commentary Sparks Backlash
The 62-year-old has drawn backlash from viewers during the World Cup, with critics accusing him of being 'miserable,' 'boring,' and 'depressing,' and of 'sucking the joy' out of the tournament with his deadpan delivery. Sam Matterface will join him on commentary, while Mark Pougatch fronts coverage alongside pundits Roy Keane, Ian Wright, Gary Neville, and Karen Carney.
BBC Axe and Move to ITV
Dixon began his broadcasting career with the BBC, appearing regularly on Match of the Day and major tournaments for eight years. However, he was axed in 2012 as part of a pundit clear-out. He then moved to commercial broadcasting, securing roles with ITV and NBC Sports in the United States, and later worked for Amazon Prime's Premier League coverage.
Apology to US Viewers
During his time with NBC, Dixon apologized live on air for a comment made during a 2018 Chelsea vs. Arsenal match. Discussing then-Blues manager Maurizio Sarri's smoking habit, he said he 'might need a fag' after watching his side throw away a two-goal lead. In the UK, 'fag' is slang for a cigarette, but in the US, it is a homophobic slur. NBC host Arlo White quickly clarified: 'We were talking about Maurizio Sarri. He's a chain smoker and we used a British term for a cigarette. Sometimes these things are lost in translation. We meant absolutely no offence.' Dixon added: 'If my choice of words offended anybody I'd just like to fully apologise.'
