Jeff Stelling makes dramatic Soccer Saturday U-turn with decision on final show

Jeff Stelling has agreed to continue hosting Soccer Saturday for "at least" one more season, Sky Sports have confirmed.

Stelling was set to quit Sky Sports' flagship football results show at the end of the current campaign after 30 years with the broadcaster but isn't ready to say goodbye just yet.

"Sky Sports is my home, and the Soccer Saturday team are a big part of my life," said Stelling. "As the end of the season approached, and I was preparing to say goodbye, I realised that I was not ready to blow the final whistle and leave the best job in the world.

"I am thrilled to be staying, and excited about moving the show forward and creating more special Saturday afternoons on Sky Sports."

Managing director of Sky Sports Jonathan Licht added: "Football fans everywhere will be delighted that Jeff will continue to host Soccer Saturday. He is a massive part of Saturday afternoon life and everyone at Sky Sports shares the joy this news will bring.

"We just can't get enough of Jeff, and can't wait to bring more of his broadcasting magic to our viewers."

Stelling joined Sky Sports in 1992, becoming the presenter of "Sports Saturday" two years later. The show was rebranded as Soccer Saturday in 1998 and Stelling has been a regular on TV screens since, gaining huge popularity among football fans.

Stelling has also hosted live games during his time at Sky Sports - most notably the Champions League between 2011 and 2015 - and was the host Channel 4's Countdown between 2008 and 2011. He announced his plan to leave Sky Sports last October.

"I have come to the incredibly difficult decision that this will be my last season," said Stelling. "This is my decision - there has been no pressure. Sky have been absolutely brilliant with me, as they always have been. I am not intending to retire but it is time to let somebody else have a go at what is the best job in the world."

Stelling went on to say: "I have loved every moment of my 30 years with Sky, but like every Saturday afternoon the time eventually comes to blow the final whistle.

"I am proud to have been part of such a winning team for so long and look forward to the many more special moments on Soccer Saturday for the rest of this season - and perhaps even another promotion push from Hartlepool United."

Sky Sports reportedly approached BBC presenter Mark Chapman to replace Stelling. Chapman is best known for hosting Match of the Day 2 and working on BBC Radio 5 Live, yet it appears he won't be succeeding Stelling anything soon.

Julian Warren is also in the running to replace Stelling. The Sky Sports News presenter has worked for Sky Sports for 15 years and hosts Soccer Special, a midweek edition of Soccer Saturday. He also steps in for Stelling on the rare occasion he's absent.