Channel Nine stands by its new Today show panel

Just as the new-look Today show kicked off on Monday with Deborah Knight replacing Karl Stefanovic as Georgie Gardner’s co-host, reports emerged that the panel shakeup at Channel Nine isn’t so set in stone.

Woman’s Day reported that Tony Jones is only a “temporary replacement” for sports reporter Tim Gilbert, with the network having another big name in mind, Shane Crawford.

However Channel Nine insists they are “happy” with Tony Jones.

“We wanted TJ and he’s joined the team. We have announced our Today Show host line-up and we’re very happy,” a Nine spokesperson told Yahoo Lifestyle on Tuesday.

“Tony is one of the country’s most respected and loved sports reporters and we’re thrilled to have him as part of the Today Show.”

Woman’s Day claimed AFL star Shane Crawford is Nine’s top pick for the job, but convincing the 44-year-old sports star to sign a contract had not been so easy.

“Today needs a Melbourne voice, they are desperate for AFL legend and top-notch presenter Shane Crawford,” an alleged source tells Woman’s Day.

The insider claims Shane has the perfect image for the breakfast show, which competes against ratings winner Sunrise.

“He’s happily married, and all round he’s one of the best in the business,” the source explains.

Shane already has television presenting experience with Channel Nine, having appeared on The AFL Footy Show, Postcards and Getaway.

Tony, 57, has been with the network for over two decades in both news and sports presenting roles.

He made headlines in 2016 when he awkwardly tried to give Rebecca Judd a kiss on air.

The new Today team excitedly kicked off their debut show on Monday morning from Melbourne, with Georgie describing it as “the very first day of a new era on Nine, with a new-look Today show team”.

“I’m thrilled to say good morning and welcome to my on-screen partner Deb Knight,” she added.

“Partner-in-crime Georgie Gardner,” responded Deborah.

Feeling like it’s the “first day of school”, Deb added: “Thankfully I’m not the only one on the desk who feels like the first day of school. I have new members of the team — and welcome to Tom Steinfort and Brooke Boney and Tony Jones”.

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