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Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Phil Tufnell's frank five-word answer to controversial Question of Sport exit
Phil Tufnell was one of three stars that were replaced on A Question of Sport in 2020 along with Sue Barker and Matt Dawson in a controversial shake-up of the show It did not come as a shock to Phil Tufnell when the BBC dropped himself, Sue Barker and Matt Dawson from A Question of Sport in 2020. The 59-year-old cricket icon had been a staple member of the show ever since he was named as a team captain in 2007. After 13 years he, Barker and Dawson were told that they would not be continuing in their role as the Beeb wanted to shake up the format and the personnel of the show. Barker was replaced by Take Me Out presenter Paddy McGuinness, while Tufnell and Dawson made way for Olympian Sam Quek and rugby's Ugo Monye. After the revamped format was put on the shelf in 2023, former Football Focus host Dan Walker took to social media and suggested the BBC had "alienated their core audience while searching for a new one" with their decision-making. Tennis icon Barker, who had presented the show for more than 20 years, has also admitted that she was unhappy with the way in which they were let go by the BBC. While speaking at the launch of The Overlap and Betfair's Stick to Cricket show, Tufnell admitted he was not left speechless when the decision was broke to him. He told Wales Online: "You can't do things forever." Tuffers explained: "They had been talking about it and what have you. I wasn't really involved in it. We'd all been doing it for a while. Well, more than a while, around 13 or 14 years I'd been captain. "They fancied a bit of a refresh. We were just sort of like, 'Okay, well, there you go. Thanks very much for the memories. I thoroughly enjoyed every single show. Loved every minute of it.' "Now we're doing the theatre show. It's not called a Question of Sport, of course. We're all good friends, all got a very similar sense of humour. "We all get on very well so it's great to be back recreating it a little bit. Obviously, you think to yourself, 'Oh crikey,' but we wished everyone the best. It was part of our lives." In a statement released at that time, the BBC said: "We would like to thank Sue for her enormous contribution as the show's longest reigning host over the last 24 years, and Matt and Phil for their excellent team captaincy over 16 and 12 years respectively. "Together they have ensured A Question of Sport remains a firm favourite with the BBC One audience. Sue, Matt and Phil's final series will be broadcast next year." When the show was shelved in 2023, a BBC spokesman hinted at the possibility of its revival by stating the decision was "not the final whistle." Tufnell said he would like to see the show return to the nation's screens, but would not expect a phone call from the BBC if it did. He added: "I hope it does come back. It was part of my childhood. It had been going for 55 years, a long time. "I loved the show when I was on it and I loved it as a boy. It was one of those little half hours that you sat round with your family. "Hopefully, it comes back. I'd be delighted to sit down and watch it. Whether we do it again, I'm not so sure. But, we've had our time, haven't we?" Betfair are set for a big summer and winter of cricket, launching a new show with The Overlap: Stick to Cricket. Don't miss the first episode next week, where the team will be reviewing the opening test of the series between England and India
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Sky Sports presenter Eilidh Barbour reveals major career change as Scots host takes ‘big step out of my comfort zone'
The popular Sky Sports host is heading out of her comfort zone this summer SKY'S THE LIMIT Sky Sports presenter Eilidh Barbour reveals major career change as Scots host takes 'big step out of my comfort zone' Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) EILIDH BARBOUR has been the face of Scottish football on Sky Sports for the past six years. Now, she's revealed an exciting new role as a big summer of footie action takes shape. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Eilidh Barbour has been hosting Scottish football on Sky since 2019 Credit: Willie Vass 3 She's performed a number of different roles for various broadcasters Credit: Kenny Ramsay - The Sun Glasgow 3 Barbour has landed a major new role for the summer Credit: X/BBC SPORT Barbour, 42, has become one of the most prominent sports presenters on UK television in recent years. The St Johnstone fan has worked for the BBC for a number of years, featuring on iconic programmes such as Final Score and Football Focus. She's also filled-in on hosting duties on Match of the Day 2. In 2017, Barbour also became the Beeb's lead golf presenter and has covered several of the game's biggest championships since. She is, however, probably most well known as the host of Sky Sports' Scottish football coverage, a role she's been in for the past six years. But with the new Scottish Premiership season still more than six weeks away, Barbour has revealed an exciting new role she'll be undertaking over the summer. And it's rather different to her usual duties in the presenting chair! She's revealed she'll be swapping the studio for the commentary box at this summer's Women's European Championships. Barbour will be one of the lead commentators on BBC Radio Five Live's coverage of the big finals in Switzerland. While it's a major departure from her usual roles, it's something the Scot's been well prepared for! Sky Sports presenter chokes up on final appearance as he leaves after nearly 30 YEARS with much-loved show axed She's been doing radio commentaries for the past year, and has covered huge games including Arsenal's Women's Champions League showdown with Real Madrid last month. Now, she's ready for the Euros. Taking to Instagram, Barbour revealed she'd landed a major career achievement by securing the commentary gig this summer. She said: "Very excited to be part of 5 Live Sport at Women's Euro 2025 in Switzerland next month. "This championship was a target I set myself when I started learning the art of radio commentary just over a year ago. "At the time I didn't know if I would ever commentate live on air, never mind anything else! It's been hard work and a big step out of my comfort zone but I've loved every minute and I'm so happy to have achieved what I had hoped to do. "A huge thanks goes to so many who have helped me along the way with guidance, wisdom, honest feedback, opportunities to improve and being a support from the co-comm chair! "Now the real work begins, on to Switzerland!" The Women's Euros take place between July 2 and July 27. Scotland failed to qualify for the finals with defending champions England and Wales the two home nations to have reached the finals. Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page
USA Today
3 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Cowboys former first-round pick has to improve to avoid dreaded bust label
Cowboys former first-round pick has to improve to avoid dreaded bust label The 2024 first-round pick was benched last season, but Dallas is giving him a second shot to protect Dak Prescott's blindside. Tyler Guyton didn't sugarcoat his rookie season performance. He didn't blame injuries... he didn't hide behind coaching turnover... he owned it. That level of mindset is a positive one to hear, especially for a first-round pick who's already facing questions about whether he can live up to his draft status. Bleacher Report's Matt Holder recently included Guyton on his list of 2024 First-Round Picks Who Must Bounce Back in 2025 to Avoid Bust Label, a nod to just how steep the expectations remain in Dallas. "I didn't do too good last season, I want to do better, I want to be the guy that can be depended on," Guyton told reporters. "I'm not gonna make any excuses, I just didn't play as good as I needed to last year. I'm coming with a different attitude this year to become a better player." Guyton, selected 29th overall out of Oklahoma, struggled in both pass protection and the run game. He gave up six sacks, drew 18 flags, and posted a sub-50 overall grade from Pro Football Focus. By the end of the year, the Cowboys benched him in favor of veteran Chuma Edoga. The team made it clear during this offseason's activities they're giving the second-year tackle another chance. Despite a shaky debut, Dallas didn't bring in a veteran to challenge him, instead opting to develop from within. That includes 2023 fifth-rounder Asim Richards, who saw limited action last season, and rookie Ajani Cornelius, who may need time to adjust to the pro level. The trust in Guyton is there, but so is the pressure to step up at a spot still looking to replace future Hall of Famer Tyron Smith. Dallas is still chasing a championship in what feels like the twilight of their current Super Bowl window. With a core that has multiple spots up for grabs, and a quarterback in Dak Prescott who will be 32 and coming off a season-ending hamstring injury, the margin for error is razor thin. And on a line that lost stalwart Zack Martin, who retired this offseason, Guyton stepping up is essential to a young line on a young team looking to return to postseason form. The Cowboys are betting that mindset shift, and another offseason under his belt, will be enough to solidify him as their left tackle of the future. If not, head coach Brian Schottenheimer and his staff could be forced at trying any of the other options waiting in the wings. But make no mistake, the job is still Guyton's to lose. Follow Cowboys Wire on Facebook to join in on the conversation with fellow fans!
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Alex Scott stuns in bold outfit at Soccer Aid but fans spot surprising detail on her dress
ALEX SCOTT's gowning glory at Soccer Aid had a special extra touch. And the dazzling detail didn't escape those fans who regularly pay close attention to the presenter. 16 Alex Scott's amazing dress as she presented Soccer Aid was even more distinctive than it might at first have looked, but not so much from this view... Credit: Reuters 16 Her outfit was subtly inscribed at the front, but less so at the back, as she took to the pitch with Dermot O'Leary to front the charity game 16 Fans loved Scott's gown as she showed why she's a fashion hit 16 Viewers found plenty of purple pro's in her outfit to write about The former Arsenal defender again teamed up with Dermot O'Leary to front the annual charity match at Old Trafford. The Football Focus broadcaster chose a purple, latex-style dress, slit to the thigh, as England took on a World XI. "Soccer Aid" and "2" were subtly inscribed on the front. But it was what was emblazoned on the back in far larger type that sparked a different line of thought from other admirers. "SCOTT" was printed right across the rear. One fan responded online: "Alex Scott, Na there is no need to have your name on the back of your dress" - followed by laughing emojis. Most viewers, however, focused on her outfit - reckoning that, fashion wise, despite her "2" she was the clear No. 1. "Alex Scott looks stunning," wrote one. 16 The presenter had a 'flash back' in the changing room BEST ONLINE CASINOS - TOP SITES IN THE UK Another fan, who was in the Old Trafford stands, posted a clip of the ex-Lioness running past with her microphone raised high. The seated admirer gushed: "Alex Scott walked by me three times today." Chloe Kelly shows off her dancing as Arsenal stars get private performance from Alex Scott's girlfriend Jess Glynne 16 16 Scott and O'Leary were once more hosting the charity match Credit: Shutterstock Editorial And if she keeps her word - after a promise she made at Sunday night's match - then she might be springing ON the pitch plenty of times next year. The 40-year-old pledged to lace up her boots next year - and PLAY. Scott's name-bearing dress was first spotted in the home dressing room - as England's co-manager Tyson Fury unleashed a F-worded motivational message. She had to cut in sharply and apologise live on ITV to viewers after the boxing legend told the Three Lions they were "f***ing Spartans". A glimpse at the broadcaster's glam life... 16 Scott began dating singer Jess Glynne in 2023 Credit: Rex 16 She is a presenter on Football Focus and The One Show 16 Alex made 148 appearances for Arsenal Women - but since quitting playing has appeared in magazines including Attitude Credit: Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards and Attitude magazine - on sale now 16 The former right-back won 140 England Women's caps Credit: Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards and Attitude magazine - on sale now 16 The 39-year-old was spotted sharing a kiss with Jess as the couple went public with their romance Credit: PA 16 Scott loves to dress up and went to town on Halloween with this incredible outfit Credit: Getty 16 She also dressed up as a scary clown on October 31 Credit: Instagram @alexscott2 16 Scott was awarded an MBE in 2017 Credit: PA
Wales Online
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Soccer Aid's Alex Scott says 'I felt so awkward' as she opens up about personal struggle
Soccer Aid's Alex Scott says 'I felt so awkward' as she opens up about personal struggle Alex Scott has opened up about the condition that made her life difficult at school, and how she went on to find success as a footballer and pundit Alex Scott will be presenting Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2025 alongside Dermot O'Leary (Image: ©UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures ) Alex Scott is a familiar face to football fans across the UK. Not only has she taken to the pitch as a player for Arsenal — helping them to victories such as the 2006–07 UEFA Women's Cup — she's also the presenter of Football Focus, a mainstay of BBC One's Saturday afternoons. And in her latest presenting role, Alex will take a pundit's chair at Soccer Aid, alongside co-presenter Dermot O'Leary. Soccer Aid is an annual charity event that sees two teams, made up of celebrities and footballing legends, play against each other to raise money for UNICEF. This year, the England team will take on famous faces including Tyson Fury, Wayne Rooney, Gary Neville, and Vicki McClure on the pitch at Old Trafford. While Alex may seem the picture of confidence when she is in front of the camera, the presenter has been candid about her difficult upbringing. Speaking to The Big Issue for their regular Letter To My Younger Self feature, Alex revealed: "I struggled with school. I'm dyslexic and it's not that I didn't want to engage, I just found I couldn't express myself. "So it was easier to remove myself from an environment where I felt so awkward and misunderstood. If I was to do my school years over again, it'd be different because we're now used to people learning in different ways," she added. Alex had an incredible career at Arsenal before moving into football punditry (Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images ) But despite her struggles, Alex went on to get a degree. She explained: "I never stopped learning, even though I struggled at school. So getting a degree [in professional sports writing and broadcasting] was a proud moment. It was also a way to shut people up because no one can say I don't deserve it or that I'm just ticking a box." Article continues below Alex even went on to write a book without using a ghostwriter, describing the tough process she went through to finish it: "Some chapters I'd be sitting there crying, but then I would shut my laptop and feel free. Getting it all out there in the world was so freeing." Alex's book gave a candid look at her childhood, discussing her upbringing with a dad she described as abusive. Titled How (Not) to Be Strong, it soon became a bestseller. Alex recalled being a child and hearing her dad being violent towards her mum, writing: "All I could do was lie there and pray my mum would be alive in the morning." In an interview with the BBC soon after the book's release, she admitted: "It's all still so raw. I can visualise it like it was yesterday. "Even when my dad left that environment, we never communicated or you don't speak about it, it's like you try to move on with your life and leave that to the side but it never leaves you. That pain and the struggles still continue." Alex also revealed in 2019 that she received sexist abuse "every single day" on social media, due to her roles as a pundit for the BBC and Sky Sports. But despite having to overcome many hurdles, Alex now seems to be living her best life. Alex has been dating singer Jess Glynne since 2023 (Image: Ian West/PA Wire ) She's been romantically linked to singer Jess Glynne, and the pair often appear loved up at red carpet events such as the BRIT Awards. Alex regularly posts updates of her travels on social media, following the England team and her beloved Arsenal when they play away. Article continues below She's even presented her own football-themed quiz show, The Tournament, and lent her voice as a commentator on the EA Sports game FIFA 22. Watch Soccer Aid from 6pm tonight on ITV1 - kick-off is at 7.30pm.
