ITV confirms Andy Townsend’s contract will not be renewed next season

http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jan/08/andy-townsend-itv-contract-not-renewed

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ITV have confirmed that Andy Townsend’s contract will not be renewed when it expires in the summer.

The former Republic of Ireland, Aston Villa and Chelsea midfielder has been part of the channel’s coverage for more than a decade and is a regular co-commentator alongside Clive Tyldesley for England matches and Champions League games.

However, with Townsend’s current deal set to expire in the summer, a spokesman for ITV has confirmed it will not be renewed, with presenter Matt Smith also not being retained.

Reports have said that the 51-year-old, who once presented a segment called Townsend’s Tactics Truck during highlights show The Premiership, will continue to work as a pundit for other international broadcasters.