TNT SPORTS have booked in a Premier League cult hero to replace Rio Ferdinand for their coverage of the Community Shield.
The broadcaster kicks off its season showing top-flight teams with the Wembley clash between Premier League champions Liverpool and FA Cup winners Crystal Palace.
Sunday’s showpiece will be its debut on TNT since the FA announced a stunning switch away from ITV as part of a four-year deal earlier this week.
There will also be a major change for the broadcaster this campaign with Manchester United legend Ferdinand stepping away from his duties with them after announcing the decision in May.
But for tomorrow’s clash, TNT have moved to bring in Eagles icon Joel Ward to make an appearance.
Ward, 35, made 363 appearances for the Selhurst Park outfit over a 13-year spell at the club.
According to City AM, the former defender will make an appearance alongside TNT regular Steve McManaman – representing the Liverpool contingent of the punditry lineup.
However, Ward – who rounded out his Palace career by lifting the club’s first ever major trophy last season – is not viewed as a long-term successor to Ferdinand.
Also on the lineup for the Shield, according to FourFourTwo, will be Fara Williams, Joe Cole and Michail Antonio – who officially left West Ham earlier this week.
Usual suspects Ally McCoist and Darren Fletcher will once again reprise their roles in the commentary box.
Announcing his exit at the end of last season to bring a decade-long partnership to an end, Ferdinand said: “After 10 incredible years, I have made the difficult decision to step away from TNT Sports after the Champions League final.
“Since retiring from football it has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching on BT Sports and TNT Sports.
“I want to acknowledge the tremendous support from the team behind the scenes, whose hard work often goes unseen, but has been essential to our success.
“To everyone at TNT Sports, we have a brilliant end to the season to look forward to on Saturday, and for now all focus will be on what I think could go down as one of the great European finals.
“The network continues to thrive with more rights than ever, and I look forward to following its progress and the exciting future that lies ahead.
“Lastly, I would like to thank my family and my management company New Era for their ongoing support.
“They have supported me to travel all over the Europe following the best players and watching the best matches. For a football fan like me, it’s been a dream come true.
“As I turn the page to the next chapter. I carry with me countless memories.
“I’m excited about what the future holds, spending more time with my family, focusing on Rio Ferdinand Presents and my other business interests.
“I hope to stay connected with all of you in different capacities. Thank you once again for everything.”
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