Jamie Carragher has paid tribute to “one of the all-time legends” Martin Tyler as he brings his Sky Sports career to a close.
The 77-year-old commentator announced on Saturday morning that he would be stepping back from his role with the broadcaster. His contract is set to expire this summer, with his departure being confirmed after a glittering 30-year career.
Tyler said: "In my humble opinion, the huge corporation Sky is today has stemmed from Sky Sports’ innovative and inspired coverage of the Premier League. It has been a privilege to play a small part in the broadcasting history of the greatest league in the world.
"Along the way I have worked alongside legions of wonderful professionals in all aspects of the television industry. I thank them all for their support and expertise. It has been an honour to be a member of a very gifted team."
After the news of his exit was confirmed, a number of his colleagues at Sky offered their tributes. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher was among those as he picked out a number of his highlights.
Taking to Twitter, he wrote: “I listened to Martin Tyler commentate on Everton ’s greatest ever game against Bayern Munich in 1985, he was commentating on my full debut & first goal for Liverpool as an 18yr old in 1997.
“I then had the privilege to work alongside him for 10yrs, the highlight being an Origi last minute derby winner! Martin is one of the all time legends of the commentary box. Aguerooooo is one of the most iconic commentary lines in the history of the game!”
What is your Martin Tyler highlight? Share your suggestions in the comments below
Jeff Stelling, who has also left Sky after a lengthy and successful career this summer as part of a huge revamp of the channel, also penned some kind words about his long-term colleague.
Also writing on Twitter, he said: “Martin Tyler right up with the all time great commentators. Always unbiased- whatever some on Twitter would believe. Most importantly a lovely man.”
It remains to be seen if Tyler will continue commentating elsewhere or he will simply hang up his microphone. He has enjoyed a sensational 49-year career as a commentator.
He worked for ITV during the 1970s and 1980s before joining Sky Sports in 1990 when the new broadcaster launched its sport coverage. Tyler was a key part of Sky’s coverage of the Premier League when the division launched and also played a role in EA Sports' iconic FIFA video game series.
He was unfortunately unable to commentate during the final weeks of the 2022/23 season due to illness, missing out on the Premier League trophy celebrations and a final tribute from Sky in the process.
