ITV have reportedly lost their rights to the FA Cup, as well as live coverage of the Champions League and Europa League.
We realise that this will make half of you explode with rapturous applause, but we feel strangely conflicted about it.
Sure, ITV coverage can at times get a bit painful, but you’re forgetting all the good times. Like this from the summer.
Glen Hoddle's imaginary microphone is the best thing I've ever seen. pic.twitter.com/0i80FI8asd
— ThePositiveLeedsFan (@PositiveLufcFan) June 7, 2014
We assume ITV will still be getting rights to international football, so there might be more imaginary microphones in the future.
But it’s about to get worse again guys. With them losing their rights, Andy Townsend is leaving by mutual consent. Take a minute to consider how strange it will be to turn on ITV international football coverage and not hear those immortal words: “For me, Clive”.
We’re sad.
ITV lose all their live football rights, and Townsend's off on a long holiday. pic.twitter.com/YyXrODPTSn
— Football Clichés (@FootballCliches) January 8, 2015
No more cliches. They’ve driven us crazy for the past 15 years, but what if the next guy’s even worse? We doubt there’s anyone out there ready to match Gary Neville’s standard.
It could be a case of not knowing what we had, until he’s gone.
Andy Townsend not getting a new ITV contract. For me Clive, at this level, he must be doing better…
— Pete Hayman (@petehayman) January 8, 2015
Townsend has had offers from other international broadcasters, so we might hear him again one day. Until then, Andy, we’ll definitely be missing you.
Play the Andy Townsend Commentary Bingo whilst watching the game. It's more fun that way. #AndyTownsend #itvfootball pic.twitter.com/La9LtdDfMq
— Patch (@patchdolan) December 11, 2014
But we’re not sure about these lot…
Andy Townsend to leave ITV at the end of the season. He will be spending more time in and around his house pic.twitter.com/keBL6PLSky
— ByTheMin Sport (@ByTheMinSport) January 8, 2015
Andy Townsend is leaving ITV at the end of the season. For me Clive, that is a top, top decision at this level.
— The Football Ramble (@FootballRamble) January 8, 2015
@HatfieldScarlet "for me Clive, Clive where have you gone?"
— Steve Nash (@Stevenfnash) January 8, 2015
So yes, some football fans may be rejoicing. But there’s still at least one more person on their list.
Outstanding news that itv won't be renewing Andy Townsend's contract after this season. Over to you BT Sport with Michael Owen
— Santino Boffa (@SantinoBoffa) January 8, 2015
Source: SNAPPA
