ITV viewers were less than impressed with the commentary during the Carabao Cup first-round match between Middlesbrough and Wrexham, with some even switching channels.
Viewers switch off over commentary
The Carabao Cup kicked off for the 2026/27 season on Friday (August 7), with Mark Pougatch hosting ITV's coverage from the Riverside Stadium. Middlesbrough faced Wrexham, with Tommy Smith and Steven Fletcher providing analysis and Seb Hutchinson and Lucy Ward on commentary.
However, fans took to social media to complain about the commentary, with some saying they had to change to Sky Sports. One viewer fumed on X: "Got to 14 minutes into the Boro/Wrexham game on ITV and I've had to flick to Sky cause the commentators are sending me to sleep."
Another added: "Wrexham v Middlesbrough on ITV and Sky. Started watching on ITV for a bit. Now watching on Sky," while a third said: "Heard the commentary... Turned off faster than you can say WHY??????"
Other viewers praise the return
Some viewers were unhappy with specific commentators, with one saying: "Absolute dire commentary on this game. Lucy Ward is boring in her commentary. Time to switch this rubbish off. Had enough of ITV and their football." Another echoed: "Great first half watched in silence."
However, not all feedback was negative. Some fans were delighted to see the Carabao Cup return to ITV, with one writing: "Middlesbrough vs Wrexham in the Carabao Cup. I've missed watching these Championship teams play." Another added: "This League cup is already shaping up to be the greatest one yet. Two absolute scorchers so far. Looks like a genius move to have the first round as the first game of the season."
Coverage of the Carabao Cup can be streamed on ITVX.
