ITV commentator Clive Tyldesley has announced he has left the World Cup before the quarter-finals take place.
Tyldesley was stood down from his postion as the broadcaster's lead commentator in July 2020 after 22 years in that role. Sam Matterface took over, with Tyldesley becoming ITV's number two, while he also took on roles for CBS Sports and Amazon Prime Video.
He has still been part of ITV's team for the last two major tournaments, though, at Euro 2020 last year and the World Cup in Qatar. But after Portugal thrashed Switzerland in the final last-16 game on Tuesday night, Tyldesley confirmed he is flying back to England.
ITV will show two quarter-finals, one semi-final, the third-place play-off and the final of this year's tournament. But Tyldesley will not be commentating on any of those games, having already departed Qatar.
He announced his return to England by tweeting a picture of a glass of wine, his passport and his boarding pass. The caption read: "My 8th World Cup in the job of my dreams and the first time I’m going to be home before England! Thank you for your company x."
Supporters flocked to show their support for the commentary legend, hailing his work in Qatar. And many questioned why he was not staying until the World Cup's conclusion, having formed a popular partnership with co-commentator Ally McCoist.
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One fan wrote: "It's criminal that you still haven't been reinstated as the main commentator. Won't ever understand the decision. You've been fantastic once again. Safe flight and on behalf of us ITV viewers, thank you for your excellent commentary."
Another added: "Absolutely unbelievable. You and Coisty are the dream team and should absolutely be covering the final. Thank you for your dedication to your work. You are unmatched."
A third said: "Oh no! Can’t believe you’re on your way home everyone loves your commentary. Hope to hear you very soon. The old Radio City Everton games still live in my memory."
"Brilliant as always Clive. Safe journey back," wrote another well-wisher, with a fifth adding: "You should still be there CT! One of the best in the business."
A final supporter concluded: "Still my favourite commentator. So disappointed you are going home now. Good luck Clive. #GOAT."
Tyldesley's early return home means ITV's commentary team will be Matterface, Jon Champion, Seb Hutchinson and Joe Speight for the remaining fortnight of this year's World Cup.
ITV will be showing two of the quarter-finals this weekend. First, they will broadcast Morocco's clash with Portugal on Saturday afternoon before screening England's match against France that evening.
The lead commentary team of Matterface and former Arsenal star Lee Dixon will be on duty for the Three Lions game. But it has not yet been announced who will be behind the microphone for the Portugal match.
