Chris Kamara has shared a fresh update on his health after announcing that will be leaving Sky Sports at the end of the season.
Kamara had spent 24 years at the broadcaster, presenting shows such as Goals on Sunday and becoming an iconic part of the Soccer Saturday programme.
The former Portsmouth and Leeds star is one of the most loved pundits around and is renowned for his catchphrases such as "Unbelievable Jeff!".
But he has sadly suffered several health problems in recent years, announcing in March that he had developed apraxia of speech. Just over a month since that statement, Kamara revealed on Saturday that this would be his last season at Sky.
"After 24 years at Sky Sports we have announced my departure. I have loved every minute & the memories will live with me forever. Working with Jeff & the boys has been Unbelievable! And the special days on Goals on Sunday with Ben Shephard who has become a great pal. I’ve had a blast!" he said on Twitter.
Kammy's announcement took place during Soccer Saturday, which allowed his fellow pundits to deliver a touching tribute. As well as a video featuring his best and funniest moments, Jeff Stelling and Paul Merson both took the opportunity to hail their colleague.
“Kammy is a genius and absolute genius,” Stelling began, before inviting former Arsenal star Merson to pay his own tribute. “For all of the funny bits, his knowledge of football is second to none.
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“What a bloke. He knows his football, he loves his football. People will look at him and think he’s just funny, but his knowledge of football is scary. You could sit down with him and he knew absolutely everything. He’ll be sorely missed.”
Stelling continued: “He was always immaculately prepared, within football he is so well regarded for his knowledge of the game. And can I just say from my point of view that it’s been a privilege to work with Kammy for so long and he’s been a key part of the Soccer Saturday success.
“His warmth, his energy, his humour, his ability to miss red cards. Nobody worked harder and he still will work hard. You’ll still see him on your TV screens, but not on our show. He’s a good man, one of the very best. A great friend and I will miss him enormously and I know you will at home as well. Good luck Kammy!”
While some were worried that it was his health that had led him to leave, Kamara has now revealed that he is progressing well. And he thanked Stelling for his touching tribute, with the presenter visibly tearing up.
"Big thanks to everyone once again for your best wishes today. I had a tear in my eye when Unbelievable Jeff got choked up on screen. I can’t thank Sky enough for that wonderful tribute. The good news also is? I am nearly there in terms of my health had amazing help," Kamara said.
Kamara is yet to announce his next move and his departure continues the revolution at Soccer Saturday. The punditry team on the show has been overhauled over the past year, while Stelling himself came close to quitting at the end of the season.
