Legendary commentator Clive Tyldesley stepping away from lead role for ITV

Legendary commentator Clive Tyldesley will be stepping away from his lead role with ITV after 22 years of service. 

Tyldesley’s voice has provided the backdrop to a huge number of memorable games over more than two decades at major international tournaments and the Champions League. 

ITV announced that he will be replaced by Sam Matterface from the start of the new season. 

Clive Tyldesley is stepping away from the role of lead ITV commentator after 22 years

Tydesley, 65, is going to remain as part of the team and will still be part of the set-up, commentating at major tournaments. 

Niall Sloane, Director of ITV Sport, said: ‘On behalf of ITV Sport, I would like to thank Clive for his superb work leading our commentary on some of the biggest occasions in world football throughout his outstanding career with us. 

‘We are very glad he will continue with us and look forward to working with him on many more occasions in the future.’

Sam Matterface will be taking over as the lead football commentator for ITV from next season

Matterface will be continuing in his role as Talksport’s lead football commentator alongside his new position. 

Tyldesley, a fan favourite over the years will be working on next year’s delayed European Championship. 

He has worked on a number of historic games down the years, including Manchester United’s dramatic triumph over Bayern Munich and England’s World Cup semi-final defeat by Croatia.