PERFECT MATCH
Ian Wright shares brilliant clip of his Match of the Day debut after Arsenal icon announces he is quitting BBC show
Arsenal legend made his Match of the Day debut while still a player in 1997
IAN WRIGHT has shared a brilliant clip of his Match of the Day debut in 1997.
The Arsenal legend this morning announced that he will be stepping down from his role on the iconic BBC show at the end of the season.
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Wright, 60, then fondly shared a clip from his first appearance, in which he described the programme as his "Graceland".
Appearing alongside former host Des Lynam and fellow pundit Trevor Brooking, the striker grinned as he was introduced.
Referencing the clip while announcing his exit, Wright wrote on social media: "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."
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He then added: "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."
After hanging up his boots in 2000, Wright first became a Match of the Day regular in 2002, his initial run lasting until 2008.
He later returned in 2015, cementing his role as one of Britain's favourite pundits.
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Wright made further history earlier this year when he appeared alongside Shaun Wright-Phillips, making them the first father/son duo in the show's entire run.
His decision to quit has led to an out-pouring of emotions from fans.
One wrote on social media: "Thank you Wrighty."
While a second admitted: "It won't be the same, but good luck in your new venture."
A third gushed: "TV Legend. Legend full stop."
And a fourth simply commented: "What a man."
Another added: "Good luck Wrighty! You’ll be sorely missed on MOTD."
Philip Bernie, head of BBC Sport content, said: "Ian has been a wonderful star player on MOTD since his first appearance over 20 years ago.
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"His insight, wit and warmth have richly entertained and informed all those watching him.
"We will miss his unique style and presence when he goes at the end of this season, but we will be sure to give him the send-off he deserves."
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