Piers Morgan has praised Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam after it was announced he was leaving his role as England's deputy chief medical officer.
The broadcaster and former newspaper editor - who has been a fierce critic of the Government's handling of the pandemic - said he was sorry to see the professor go.
Sir Jonathan, famed for his imaginative and colourful metaphors and analogies during covid briefings, will continue in his role until March.
Mr Morgan said: "Very sorry to see Professor Van-Tam quit as Deputy CMO. He’s been the best communicator throughout the pandemic - frank, clear, trustworthy and charming.
"I fear our best podium striker got sick of playing with a bunch of lying hypocrites who keep scoring horrific own goals."
Sir Jonathan is to take up a new role as pro-vice chancellor for the faculty of medicine and health sciences at the University of Nottingham.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who regularly briefed the nation alongside Sir Jonathan and chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty, thanked Sir Jonathan “for his extraordinary contribution to our country and his invaluable advice throughout the pandemic”, while Health Secretary Sajid Javid said it had been an “honour” to work with the “national treasure”.
The Prime Minister has faced calls to quit after admitting attending a “bring your own booze” event in the No 10 garden on May 20 2020.
He has insisted that he believed it was a work event and No 10 said he had not seen the email inviting staff to bring their own alcohol to the “socially distanced drinks”.
Mr Johnson apologised for the event in the Commons on Wednesday.
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