FOOTBALL FOCUS

'''Football Focus''' is a BBC television show covering football. It previously formed a part of the ''Grandstand'' programme but has since August 2001 been considered a show in its own right, albeit still showing in the Saturday afternoon slot on BBC One immediately before ''Grandstand'' (prior to Grandstand's termination in 2007). Prior to the launch of ''Match of the Day 2'', it was often the first chance for non-Sky Sports viewers to see analysis of the Sunday and Monday Premiership games. Now, it is more of a preview show, along with updates from the early Premiership game. Coverage then segues into ''Score'' on BBCi.
A version of the program which looks at world football airs on BBC World.
The theme song for the 2006-2007 season is "Open Your Eyes" by Snow Patrol. The previous theme which aired from the 2003-2004 season featured a cover of the Stevie Nicks track "Stand Back" by Linus Loves featuring Sam Obernik.
As of 2006, its regular presenter is Manish Bhasin, who is usually joined by the BBC's main football pundits such as Mark Lawrenson, Lee Dixon, Martin Keown and Gavin Peacock. ''Match of the Day'' commentators such as Jonathan Pearce and John Motson often check-in with game previews from the stadiums. Jake Humphrey or Mark Pougatch also present the program when Manish is away.
In November 2005, the British Prime Minister Tony Blair appeared on the programme alongside Bhasin, Lawrenson and John Motson. He singled out three players as his favourites - Fulham FC's Steed Malbranque, Wigan Athletic's Arjan de Zeeuw and veteran striker Teddy Sheringham, who was playing for West Ham United at the time.
Previous hosts include Ray Stubbs (1999-2004), Gary Lineker (1996-1999), Steve Rider (1994-1996) and Bob Wilson (1974-1994).

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External link

★ Official site