Rio Ferdinand has announced he is leaving TNT Sports after Saturday's Champions League final. The former Leeds United and Manchester United defender has been part of the broadcaster's punditry team for a decade but will depart to focus on his podcast and "business interests".
Ferdinand's last game as a pundit at TNT Sports is the final of Europe's elite club competition this weekend, as Paris Saint-Germain entertain Inter Milan in Munich, Germany.
"Since retiring from football, it has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching BT Sport and TNT Sports," he said in a statement on social media.
"I want to acknowledge the tremendous support from the team behind the scenes, whose hard work often goes unseen but has been essential to our success.
"As I turn the page to the next chapter, I carry with me countless memories. I am excited about what the future holds, spending more time with my family, focusing on Rio Ferdinand Presents and my other business interests.
"I hope to stay connected with you all in different capacities. Thank you once again for everything!"
TNT Sports replied: "Thank you for everything, Rio [love heart emoji]."
Ex-Manchester United and Leicester City right-back Danny Simpson was among those to send a message to Ferdinand. He wrote on Instagram: "You're going to be missed bro.
"Every time you're on you give us all the mad insight."
Sources close to TNT Sports have said Ferdinand has left by mutual consent, and the door is being kept open for opportunities in the future.
Ferdinand retired from professional football in May 2015 after a difficult season at QPR. He had spent the previous 12 years at Manchester United following his controversial then-British record move from Leeds United.
He won six Premier League titles and made 455 appearances during his time at Old Trafford. Along with this, he lifted the Champions League and the League Cup twice.