Why Arsenal legend Ian Wright is leaving Match of the Day at the end of the season

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has confirmed he's taking a step back from his role as a pundit on BBC’s Match of the Day programme to pursue a "few more different things".

Wright says he wants to use his Saturdays for different things but highlights what being on the show meant to him. The show is hosted by Gary Lineker and 60-year-old Wright has been a regular on it since 2002 even though he first made his debut in 1997 when he was still an Arsenal player. 

"After my debut show whilst still a player in 1997 and many more memorable years, I’ll be stepping back from BBC MOTD at the end of this season,” Wright posted on social media. “I feel very privileged to have had such an incredible run on the most iconic football show in the world.

“Anyone who knows my story knows how much the show has meant to me since I was a 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.

“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.

“I’m really looking forward to my last months on the show and covering what will hopefully be an amazing Premier League title race.”

Wright enjoyed a hugely successful playing career despite only joining his first professional team, Crystal Palace, at the age of 21 in 1985. He also played 288 games and scored 185 goals for the Gunners and won the League title amongst others in north London.