Ian Wright has opened up on his decision to leave Match of the Day, 26 years after making his first appearance on the programme.
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Wright has stepped down from BBC showWill leave at end of seasonWants to spend more time watching gamesWHAT HAPPENED?
Wright will leave iconic BBC show Match of the Day at the end of the season after over two decades on the programme. The former Arsenal striker made his first appearance back in 1997 and has been a regular pundit since 2002. Wright, who celebrated turning 60 in November, has now elaborated on his decision to walk away from the programme and revealed what he intends to do instead.
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He said: "I’m going to actually watch more football. I’m going to watch my grand-daughter. I’m going to watch a lot more women’s games. I’m going to watch a lot more Arsenal games, just to be there with fans.
"Go with my son and his missus, be amongst it, just to celebrate when we win or when we lose. It’s been a bit of a realisation that I want to give quality time to them. So that’s what I want. To watch games, spend time with people."
GettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Wright has become one of the most well-known pundits on television following his stint at Match of the Day. The former Gunners striker began working in television after a career where he won the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup with Arsenal.
Wright will certainly be missed, not least by Match of the Day host Gary Lineker, who has made his feelings clear on his colleague's impending departure. "It has been an absolute pleasure and privilege to work alongside you, Ian. One of my favourite people on the planet. Farewell my friend," he wrote on social media.
WHAT NEXT FOR WRIGHT AND ARSENAL
Fans will be able to watch Wright on Match of the Day until the end of the season. The club legend is then likely to be spotted following his beloved Arsenal around the country and spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren.
