Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has openly praised his colleague Simon Thomas, who took over as the host of the iconic Soccer Saturday programme following Jeff Stelling's departure in 2023. Merson, a regular fixture on the panel show, commended Thomas for stepping into the significant role left by Stelling, who had been the face of the show for over two decades.
Merson's Unwavering Support for Thomas
In a recent episode of the Stick to Football podcast, Merson expressed his admiration for Thomas, highlighting the immense pressure of following in Stelling's footsteps. He likened the challenge to replacing a top footballer, stating, "It's like going into Man City and taking [Erling] Haaland's place and saying, 'Right you've got to score 40 goals a season'." Merson emphasised that Thomas has handled this daunting task with grace and authenticity, simply being himself on air.
The Legacy of Jeff Stelling
Jeff Stelling's exit from Sky Sports marked the end of an era, as he had been the lead presenter of Soccer Saturday for more than twenty years. Since leaving, Stelling has transitioned to a presenter role at talkSPORT and was recently appointed as a brand ambassador for OLBG. His departure left big shoes to fill, making Thomas's appointment a pivotal moment for the show.
Simon Thomas's Journey to Soccer Saturday
Simon Thomas first joined Sky Sports over twenty years ago, after gaining experience as a presenter on Blue Peter. His career took a personal turn in 2017 when he left Sky following the tragic death of his wife, Gemma. Thomas returned to the broadcaster and has now been at the helm of Soccer Saturday for two-and-a-half seasons, earning widespread acclaim for his dedication and skill.
The Demands of Hosting Soccer Saturday
Merson shed light on the rigorous demands of hosting Soccer Saturday, noting that Thomas works tirelessly for six hours without a break. From announcing scores at 3pm to presenting full-time results, updating tables, and conducting player interviews, the role requires immense stamina and focus. Merson remarked, "What Simon does is unbelievable, to follow someone like Jeff Stelling...", acknowledging the high standards Thomas has maintained.
Despite occasional nerves, which Merson believes are justified given the job's difficulty, Thomas has proven to be a capable and respected host. His ability to stay composed and deliver under pressure has won over fans and colleagues alike, solidifying his place as a key figure in sports broadcasting.
