Jermaine Jenas will not be part of the ITV team covering Soccer Aid this weekend after being sacked by the BBC last year
Jermaine Jenas will not be part of the ITV team covering Soccer Aid this weekend, amid the ongoing fallout from the BBC’s dismissal of him over allegations of workplace misconduct.
The former England international was sacked in August over claims he had sent inappropriate texts to female colleagues. Jenas was removed from his role as a presenter of The One Show and a pundit for BBC Sport after an internal investigation was launched.
Jenas saw his contract terminated by the broadcaster and ultimately also parted ways with his long-term agents MC Saatchi in addition to being let go from his role presenting Formula E. In previous years, Jenas has worked alongside Maya Jama as part of ITV’s coverage for the charity match Soccer Aid, with Dermot O’Leary and Alex Scott taking on presenting duties.
The latter pair are set to host once again as England take on a Rest of the World side with Wayne Rooney and Tyson Fury co-managing the Three Lions at Old Trafford on Sunday. According to Mail Online, ITV did not consider Jenas to be part of the production.
Given Jenas’ recent controversies, the channel did not want to draw unwanted attention to an event centred around charity. It is claimed that ITV still has a good relationship with the former Newcastle and Tottenham midfielder.
Jenas has returned to football media work following his departure from the BBC. After a brief hiatus from his presenting role on talkSPORT, the 42-year-old made a guest appearance and resumed his commentary duties in February.
Reflecting on his return, Jenas told the radio station: “The biggest thing in this whole situation is about taking responsibility and that has been at the forefront of my mind. There’s a reason why you’re in this position and there’s a reason why this has happened.
“Once you accept those things, then you can work on yourself and you can work on the other things and you can work on your family and work towards a brighter future.
“Essentially, this is about me looking inwards, making some improvements and coming back a better person.”
However, in March, Jenas’ long-term partner Ellie Penfold announced their separation. The couple, who have four children together, had been in a 16-year relationship.
Penfold took to social media to share the news, stating: “I never imagined I would have to share something so personal with the public, but given the situation, I feel it’s necessary.
“After 16 years together and 4 wonderful children, Jermaine and I have decided to part ways.
“We will remain friends and continue to co-parent. We kindly ask that you respect our children’s privacy during this challenging time. Thank you, Ellie.”