Sky Sports confirmed on Wednesday that Niall Quinn is stepping away from his role as a football pundit with the broadcaster.

Quinn had been scheduled to appear at Sky's launch of their 2017/18 Premier League coverage on Wednesday. However, he was unable to attend with Keith Andrews inserted as a late replacement.

The former Ireland international had been an analyst and commentator with Sky for several years but is moving on to pursue a business opportunity outside of the media.

Quinn, who is a company director of broadband provider Qsat, said it had been a tough decision.

I've had an amazing time working for Sky Sports, the passion and dedication that goes into their coverage is unmatched but sadly I won't be part of the team this season. I'm moving on to a new business opportunity and I've had to make the tough decision and choose one path and really devote myself to that. I'll miss the team ethic in Sky Sports, the love of the game, alongside the ambition to deliver coverage of the highest quality. I'll be watching the season with interest and enjoying it from the other side of the camera.

Gary Hughes, who is Sky Sports' head of football, said Quinn had been an asset to their Premier League coverage.


Niall goes with our blessing and best wishes with his new venture. He's been a great asset to our Premier League and football coverage with his intelligent and honest views, but he's made a personal decision and having gotten to know him, I know he'll make it a success.

Earlier this year, in conversation with Richie Sadlier on Second Captains, Quinn admitted he had reluctantly entered the punditry game following his departure from Sunderland as chairman five-and-a-half years ago.

Sky Sports will kick off the new Premier League season on Friday 11 Aug with Arsenal v Leicester. 159 live Premier League games will air on Sky Sports Premier League (Channel 402) this season including 3pm Saturday kick-offs exclusive to Sky Ireland customers.