BBC and ITV Sport ‘warn football pundits there will be NO pay increases next season’

Pundits across two of England’s terrestrial sports channels have reportedly been told they will not be receiving any pay increase as part of next season’s football coverage.

Numerous former players have stormed into punditry positions in recent years as they make the transition from on-pitch to in-studio. 

But those working at BBC Sport and ITV Sport have apparently been notified that their existing pay-packets won’t be further strengthened in-line with next season.

The decision comes amidst changes in the industry that have seen Sky Sports axe members of their presenting teams along iconic football show Soccer AM, according to The Sun.

Both BBC and ITV boasted teams basking with former England and international stars for their coverage of the Qatar World Cup, and continue to employ stars for their ongoing airing of cup competitions.

Rio Ferdinand was part of the BBC’s coverage of the Qatar World Cup last year

Ex-Manchester Untied captain Roy Keane was joined by the likes of his once Red Devils team-mate Gary Neville, Liverpool legend Graeme Souness, and previous Chelsea star Joe Cole.

The BBC meanwhile employed Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, Rio Ferdinand and Jermaine Jenas for their coverage in the Middle East.

Arsenal icon Ian Wright works across both broadcasters covering club and international compeititions. 

An apparent wage cap will mean that the celebrity line-ups across both channels will have to stick with the salaries they have currently signed up to.

Former Arsenal icon Ian Wright works as a pundit across both broadcasters

Meanwhile, Sky Sports previously told their football presenters in March that they need to re-apply for their jobs at the company due to a proposed shake-up.

At the time, the mega broadcaster stated: ‘Our coverage of football is evolving to reflect the changing habits of our viewers and ensures we continue to deliver the best experience for customers.

‘Our proposal would mean the creation of new roles, and the closing of some existing roles, and we are currently in a consultation period with our people.’

The claim was refuted by Sky, who insisted the operation was about restructuring in a search for evolution and diversity.