Match of the Day won't ever be the same again as John Motson has announced his retirement from BBC Sport after 50 years.
Motty will return to MOTD this weekend for Brighton v West Bromwich Albion to kick off his 'farewell tour' that will see him commentate on 18 games during the current Premier League season, before a final appearance during next year's FA Cup Final coverage.
His 50 years working for BBC Sport have seen him cover 10 World Cups, 29 FA Cup Finals, 10 European Championships and more than 200 England games.
Motty's dulcet tones were first heard on Match of the Day in 1971, three years after his started as a sports reporter on Radio 2. His breakthrough came in 1972 when he commentated on Hereford's shock 2-1 win over Newcastle in the FA Cup.
It's no surprise that he was crowned Britain's most beloved commentator in 2001 by sports fans.
"I've absolutely loved my time commentating for BBC Sport and I've been fortunate enough to witness some of the biggest moments in football history mere yards away from the action, so I've really been very lucky," Motty enthused.
"John Motson is a real asset to the football world and he will be sorely missed," added Barbara Slater, BBC Director of Sport.
"It isn't hard to see why he is so highly treasured, not just by the BBC but also by the nation, due to his instantly recognisable voice, wonderful sense of humour and his incredible dedication to the sport.
"As he moves on from commentating for BBC Sport, we wish him the best of luck for the future."
Better make the most of Motty when he returns to Match of the Day this Saturday at 10.30pm on BBC One.
