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Rio Ferdinand on punditry duty for TNT Sports(Image: Nigel French/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)

TNT Sports appear to have found a replacement for Rio Ferdinand ahead of Liverpool's clash against Crystal Palace in the Community Shield.

With the fresh season approaching, TNT Sports have apparently identified a successor for the former United skipper.

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As reported by business publication City AM, TNT Sports have enlisted Joel Ward to join Steve McManaman on the punditry panel for the Community Shield clash between Liverpool and Crystal Palace.



The report suggests that the former Crystal Palace defender is not being considered as a long-term replacement for Ferdinand.

After 13 years at Selhurst Park, Ward left Palace following the expiry of his deal in the summer.

Speaking to the club website, the 35-year-old said: "For me, it’s been a huge privilege to wear this shirt, to represent this club.

Joel Ward and Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace lift the FA Cup(Image: Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

"It’s been an incredible journey with so many fond memories, so many incredible moments – moments that will live on in my mind for the rest of my life.

The defender said: "The idea is to carry on.

Marc Guehi and Joel Ward of Crystal Palace celebrate with the FA Cup.(Image: Sebastian Frej/Getty Images)

"I've still got the hunger, still got the desire to play and to cross that white line.

The broadcaster will air live matches starting from the first round, with all games from the third round of the world's oldest national football competition – excluding 3pm kick-offs – available up to the final at Wembley Stadium.

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TNT Sports will also broadcast the Community Shield this Sunday.