Crystal Palace icon Joel Ward will feature in TNT Sports' punditry team for Sunday's Community Shield clash at Wembley, as the broadcaster prepares for its inaugural match under a new four-year agreement with the FA.
The 35-year-old defender, who concluded a distinguished 13-year career at Selhurst Park with 363 appearances, has been selected to provide analysis for the showpiece between Premier League champions Liverpool and FA Cup holders Crystal Palace.
Ward's inclusion marks a significant change for TNT Sports following Rio Ferdinand's departure after a decade with the broadcaster. The former Manchester United defender announced his exit in May, bringing to a close his long-standing association with the network.
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The former Eagles defender will be joined by ex-Liverpool midfielder Steve McManaman, providing representation for the Reds in the studio discussion. Former England women's international Fara Williams has also been confirmed for the broadcast, alongside ex-Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole.
Joel Ward will take up punditry for the Community Shield on Sunday
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West Ham's recently departed striker Michail Antonio completes the punditry panel for the Wembley encounter. The forward officially ended his association with the Hammers earlier this week.
Commentary duties will be handled by the established partnership of Ally McCoist and Darren Fletcher, who are returning to their familiar roles for the new season.
Despite Ward's prominent role in tomorrow's coverage, the broadcaster does not consider him a permanent replacement for Ferdinand.
JUST IN: Ronnie O'Sullivan reveals new career move as snooker struggles continueThe Community Shield encounter represents TNT Sports' first broadcast under their newly acquired FA rights package, marking a significant shift in UK football coverage.
The four-year agreement, announced earlier this week, sees the broadcaster take over from ITV as the FA's broadcast partner.
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Rio Ferdinand left TNT Sports after a decade earlier this year
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Sunday's Wembley fixture between Liverpool and Crystal Palace serves as the season opener for TNT's coverage of elite English football.
The match holds particular significance for Palace defender Ward, who helped secure the club's maiden major honour when they lifted the FA Cup last season.
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The new broadcasting arrangement signals TNT's expanding portfolio of football rights as they continue to strengthen their position in the UK sports media landscape.
Ferdinand explained his decision to step away following the Champions League final, stating: "After 10 incredible years, I have made the difficult decision to step away from TNT Sports after the Champions League final."
The defender won the FA Cup with Crystal Palace last season
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The 45-year-old expressed gratitude for his time with the network, adding: "Since retiring from football it has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching on BT Sports and TNT Sports."
He acknowledged the production team's contributions and outlined his future plans: "I'm excited about what the future holds, spending more time with my family, focusing on Rio Ferdinand Presents and my other business interests."