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Ian Wright has announced he is stepping down as a pundit on Match of the Day more than 25 years after his debut on the iconic show.
The former Arsenal and England striker, 60, first appeared on the flagship BBC highlights programme back in 1997 while he was still playing. Wright has had two permanent spells as a Match of the Day pundit 2002 to 2008 before returning in 2015.
Wright announced on X: "After my debut show whilst still a player in 1997 and many more memorable years, I’ll be stepping back from BBC MOTD at the end of this season. I feel very privileged to have had such an incredible run on the most iconic football show in the world."
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He added: "Anyone that knows my story knows how much the show has meant to me since I was young boy. MOTD is my Holy Grail. On my first ever show, I told Des Lynam, “This is my Graceland”. It will always be my Graceland and I will always be watching.
"I’m stepping back having made great friends and many great memories. This decision has been coming for a while, maybe my birthday earlier this year fast-tracked it a little, but ultimately it’s time to do a few more different things with my Saturdays.
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"I’m really looking forward to my last months on the show and covering what will hopefully be an amazing Premier League title race."
Gunners fans were among the first to wish Wright well following his decision. One said: "Legend. Hopefully the boys make your last season on MOTD a memorable one"
Another added: "Legend. Forever an icon. The most loyal Arsenal legend." A third suggested: "Arteta needs to show this tweet in the changing room – do not let Wrighty leave MOTD without his last show being Arsenal winning the title."
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