Jeff Stelling has claimed “ageism is alive and well” after ITV announced Clive Tyldesley would be dropped as the channel’s main football commentator.
The Sky Sports presenter – who like Tyldesley is 65 – hit out at ITV for its “baffling” decision to demote his free-to-air counterpart from next season.
Stelling tweeted: “Clive does more prep and stats than me – and his are useful! Baffling as you are as good as ever! Oh I forgot Clive you are 65. Ageism alive and well in UK broadcasting.”
ITV has confirmed Talksport chief football commentator Sam Matterface – who is over two decades their junior – as Tyldesley’s replacement after 22 years.
Tyldesley revealed he does not know the exact reasons for the change, which he regards as a sacking, and said he is “upset, annoyed” and “baffled”.
Stelling’s remarks came in response to a two-minute video Tyldesley posted on Twitter in which he vented his disappointment and disbelief at the news.
The veteran of ITV’s Champions League coverage had been due to commentate on his tenth major international final before Euro 2020 was postponed.
Tyldesley said a colleague had told him he thought he was being relieved of his major duties due to personal health problems, though he has none.
Sky Sports continues to employ 74-year-old Martin Tyler as its lead football commentator nearly 30 years since he started spearheading its coverage.
The BBC’s John Motson could be heard on the national broadcaster throughout his early 70s, though he retired from live TV commentary at the age of 63.
All the major sports channels have been criticised for a lack of diversity in the commentary box, with few ethnic minority or female voices currently on air.
ITV Sport’s director Niall Sloane thanked Tyldesley for his contribution as its No.1 commentator and confirmed he would still be used in a secondary role.
He said in a statement: “We are very glad he will continue with us and look forward to working with him on many more occasions in the future.”
