Former presenter Bob Wilson stunned by BBC decision to axe Football Focus

Former presenter Bob Wilson feels it is “crazy” the BBC has decided to take Football Focus off the air after more than half a century.

The Saturday lunchtime programme was first broadcast in 1974, with former Scotland and Arsenal goalkeeper Wilson becoming the new show’s host.

On Thursday, the BBC said in a press release “changing audience behaviours” had prompted it to act, bringing to an end the show’s run of 52 years when it finishes at the end of the season, with Football Interview set to move into the Saturday 12.45pm slot.

Wilson, though, feels the Football Focus format still has a place in the changing broadcast landscape.

“I was absolutely shocked to hear that Football Focus will end this summer. It has run successfully for 52 years, so goodness me, why are they getting rid of it?” the 84-year-old said in the Times.

“I have always watched the show when possible and loved the fact that it was being enjoyed by the next generation.”

Wilson added: “I just can’t believe there aren’t people at noon on a Saturday who don’t want to watch a show that sets up the weekend. Surely someone else will pick it up as a concept?

“I am really disappointed it has come to this. The BBC has said it will be replaced next season by an interview show about what makes footballers tick. That is crazy.

“People want to be told about the big games of the weekend, the issues, the news of the week, discussion, covering a range of clubs and personalities. Not just one.

“It will feel different when I next watch Football Focus. It became an institution, and will be missed.”

The BBC’s head of sport, Alex Kay-Jelski, confirmed regular Football Focus presenter Alex Scott would “remain at the heart” of the BBC’s sport output – including its coverage of next year’s Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Scott, 41, took great pride in the impact the show had on so many down the years, but admitted she was filled with “so much anxiety and dread” over the expected “toxic” social media backlash to the announcement.

“TV audiences have been declining for years, while digital and on demand viewing continues to grow. It is simply the right time for Football Focus to say goodbye,” Scott said in a video post on Instagram.

“The lead up to this announcement, not gonna (sic) lie, it has felt heavy, and at times it has filled me with so much anxiety and dread because of the toxic side of social media – that I am often told to ignore and just carry on – but I am human, just like you.

“I would love nothing more then for this moment to be about recognising the iconic show that is closing its doors and celebrating everything it has given and nothing else.

“We have still got a few Saturdays left together, so let’s make sure that this show leaves our screens in the best way possible, reflecting the impact it has had on so many people.

“Shows come and go, but what Football Focus has meant to people, that will stay forever.”