Graeme Souness leaves Sky Sports after 15 years as a pundit

After 15 years as a pundit with Sky Sports, Graeme Souness has been confirmed to be leaving the company. This announcement was made by Sky Sports after Liverpool's victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

Souness, a former Liverpool player, has gained a reputation for being a controversial figure in the sport due to his traditional views.

 After expressing some of these views once again on Sunday, following the thrilling Premier League match between Liverpool and Spurs, Sky Sports announced that he would be leaving the company.

During his discussion on Sunday, Souness was focusing on Tottenham Hotspur's future plans after conceding three goals within the first 15 minutes of the game and then making a comeback, only to still end up losing the match.

Following the game, Souness stated that Premier League teams had a preference for foreign managers and suggested that Tottenham Hotspur should consider hiring a British manager. However, he did not provide any specific recommendations for potential candidates.

Speaking about his time as a pundit on Sky, an emotional Souness said:

 "I was given an opportunity to do this and it was magnificent.

"It has just been the most fantastic time for me.

"I love football, l care about football and l worry about it going forward, but in Sky's hands it is in good hands, it is in safe hands."

Sky Sports director of football Gary Hughes said:

 "We will miss Graeme's no-nonsense approach in the studio - matched only by his playing style.

"The insight and winning mentality he brought to our viewers as a result of his years' of experience as both a player and a manager has been invaluable to our coverage. We wish him all the best for the future."

"Souness left the season after Pogba went. Man said he completed his mission," one fan joked about the former Newcastle United manager's departure.

"Souness’ genuinely one of the only OGs with TV punditry I’d take seriously. Real insight that accurately taps into intangible, real life football things," said a second, glowingly.

A third replied, "Actually gutted to hear that’s Souness’ last time in the studio, genuinely enjoy him."

"Happy retirement Graeme Souness, probably a little too old school for today’s audience sadly," argued a fourth supporter.

"What a stint Souness has done. Personally, I think he’ll be sorely missed," responded a fifth.

Despite it being his final appearance as a pundit for Sky Sports, Souness showed no signs of toning down his controversial style, even criticizing Harry Kane in his typical direct manner. 

Interestingly, this news coincided with the announcement that Soccer Saturday presenter, Jeff Stelling, will also retire at the end of the current season.

Jeff Stelling had planned to retire a year ago but decided to extend his tenure for one more season before stepping down. In contrast, Graeme Souness has already completed his final shift as a pundit for Sky Sports.