Daily Mail: Bianca Westwood breaks silence on her Sky Sports departure

Story from Daily Mail:

Bianca Westwood penned an emotional farewell on social media as she confirmed that she has left Sky Sports.

Mail Sport revealed in June that the popular Soccer Saturday was among those set to leave this summer as part of a significant revamp of their football coverage - but she had not spoken about it publicly.

'A bit like when I did my first match report, I didn't want to make a fuss but I've had SO many messages & questions about where I'll be today I thought I might as well let you know,' Westwood wrote on Instagram.

'I haven't quite made enough money to retire unfortunately, but I am retiring from Sky Sports & Soccer Saturday.

'It's been a phenomenal 22 & a half years & I've been a small part of building the channel into the giant of broadcasting it is today. What a ride!

'Being the first female match reporter on Soccer Saturday is something I'm immensely proud of & that can never be taken away from me.

'I've covered hundreds & hundreds of games, I've interviewed hundreds of players & managers.

'I've watched hours & hours of football. Years of experience (I said what I said!) that will live with me forever.

'For the most part, it's been a blast. I'm grateful to you the viewers for watching over the years & for all your support.

'To those I've worked with who've been a big part of my life at Sky, you know who you are, thanks for the memories. On to the next chapter. Buzzing for it.'

Westwood was part of a group of 13 that have been moved on as part of the shake-up.

Longtime Soccer Saturday mainstay Jeff Stelling stepped down from hosting the popular show after nearly 30 years at the end of last season, with former Blue Peter presenter Simon Thomas named as his successor.

Soccer AM duo John 'Fenners' Fendley and Peter 'Tubes' Dale also departed the broadcaster this summer as the long-running weekly comedy talk show came to an end after 29 years.

Additional high-profile departures from Sky's football team include that of storied commentator Martin Tyler, who has been replaced by Peter Drury for the coming season, and long-time Soccer Saturday stalwart Dickie Davis.