Sky Sports have confirmed Wycombe Wanderers’ Adebayo Akinfenwa and former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler are among the Soccer Saturday pundits for the new season.

A number of other ex-footballers have also been named to join presenter Jeff Stelling and the ever-present Paul Merson including Tim Sherwood, Joleon Lescott, Chris Kamara, Sue Smith, Clinton Morrison, Alan McInally and Glen Johnson.

The announcement comes after it was revealed last month that long-time trio Matt Le Tissier, Phil Thompson and Charlie Nicholas had all been sacked from the show.

Stelling previously voiced his disappointment about the departures from the show on Twitter, saying: "One of my saddest days ever at Sky Sports with the departure of three of my best mates.

"They have been part of a team that for me was the best."

On Wednesday, the presenter added: "Anyway night all. Make sure you watch on Saturday when I promise first question I will ask re Fulham v Arsenal is ‘which team have made a bright start ?'"

Meanwhile, the pundits spearheading Sky’s match day coverage for the 2020-21 season include Micah Richards, Roy Keane and Patrice Evra.

The staple cast of Jamie Carragher, Gary Neville, Graeme Souness and Jamie Redknapp will also feature prominently on the flagship shows Friday and Monday Night Football, as well as the weekly Super Sundays.

Speaking about the new appointments, Sky Sports Director of Football Gary Hughes said: "With fans currently unable to attend matches in person, it is imperative we provide the best possible TV and digital coverage to our audiences.

"Confirming Patrice, Micah and Roy to add to our existing line-up of award-winning pundits is brilliant news and we will strive to take the game closer to fans than ever before with increased live action, highlights and analysis."