Sky Sports legend QUITS after 30 years as he becomes latest big name to leave in huge reshuffle

GEOFF SHREEVES has become the latest legend to leave Sky Sports.

The big-name reporter is to quit with immediate effect after SunSport exclusively revealed he was to become the latest victim of Sky’s cost-cutting efforts.

Shreeves has been an ever-present figure at Sky Sports since joining in 1992.

We told you in March that bosses were considering his position after axing iconic show Soccer AM.

And the claims Shreeves is now leaving the broadcaster with immediate effect.

The 58-year-old was reportedly offered a new contract on a reduced salary.

Sky Sports are looking to shake up the diversity of their football coverage, while also cutting back on costs.

But Shreeves rejected the chance to stay and is now considering offers, with the expectation that he will return to TV screens shortly.

Shreeves said in a statement: “There’s an old saying that you always have to know the best time to leave even the greatest party.

“And that’s what my thirty-two years at Sky have been – the most fantastic party I could ever imagined attending.

BETTING SPECIAL – BEST NO DEPOSIT CASINO OFFERS

“From the first kick of a ball in the live coverage of the Premier League to Manchester City’s title celebrations last season – with plenty in between.   

“I have been fortunate to work for a ground-breaking company who have helped revolutionise football. But the time is right to move on.

“Sky have been incredibly generous in recognition of my service and I can’t speak more highly of so many people I’ve worked with there over three decades.

“I now have the opportunity for new experiences which I’m looking forward to announcing in the very near future.” 

Sky Sports Director of Football Gary Hughes added: “Geoff has been an integral part of the Sky Sports football team and the best tunnel reporter in the business, interviewing the biggest names at the biggest games for over 30 years.

“Geoff leaves with our sincere thanks and best wishes for the future. As Sir Alex always said, Well done, Geoff!” 

It remains to be seen who replaces Shreeves as Sky Sports’ pitch-side reporter.

He’s not the first giant name to leave in recent months either.

Legendary commentator Martin Tyler stepped down from his role in June after 33 years, with Peter Drury confirmed as his replacement just a day later.

Meanwhile, Jeff Stelling is reportedly on gardening leave after walking away from Soccer Saturday.

Former Blue Peter presenter Simon Thomas is among the favourites to replace him, with Laura Woods tipped for TNT Sport after leaving talkSPORT.

And there’ll be no sign of pundit Graeme Souness after his tearful farewell in April.

SunSport understands the Scot could now return to old club Rangers in a “meaningful” role.

TRANSFER NEWS LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and confirmed switches from the world of football