Simon Thomas named new Soccer Saturday host as Mike Dean joins Sky Sports show

Sky Sports have announced that Simon Thomas will be the new presenter of their Soccer Saturday show, replacing Jeff Stelling.

And Sky have also also announced that former Premier League referee Mike Dean will be joining the panel to offer insight and perspective of a match official.

Stelling announced at the end of April that he would be leaving Soccer Saturday at the end of the 2022-23 season. He had been at Sky Sports for more than 30 years and been the host of the popular Saturday results show for 25 years.

The Hartlepool United supporter made the announcement during the show and was then treated to a round of applause from the guests, including long-time co-worker Paul Merson.

Thomas first started working for Sky Sports in 2005 and says he "cannot wait" to start hosting Soccer Saturday.

Thomas left Sky six years ago following the death of his wife Gemma. Thomas, 50, said: "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. 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."

Wirral-born Dean has left the Premier League's video assistant referee (VAR) to start his television career. The 55-year-old 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!"

Thomas and Dean will be joined in a new-look Soccer Saturday studio