Garry Lyon to return to Footy Classified

FOR the first time Garry Lyon has confirmed that he is returning to television.

Garry Lyon and Billy Brownless in happier times.

• Gossip Queen: Lyon to return after seclusion

FOR the first time Garry Lyon has confirmed that he is returning to television.

Lyon confirmed to the Herald Sun that he will return to co-host Footy Classified next year.

“I love Footy Classified and have loved doing it in the past, and thankfully I have an opportunity come and resume my role with three people I respect, and look forward to working alongside again,” he said.

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The return to TV comes after a tumultuous year for Lyon, when it was revealed he had fallen out with his former best mate Billy Brownless over a relationship with his ex-wife Nicky.

He spent time off after leaving The Footy Show to deal with mental health issues.

His return to television is backed up by Channel 9’s Melbourne boss, Ian Paterson.

Channel 9 stalwarts Billy Brownless, Garry Lyon and Sam Newman.

“I’m delighted that Garry will be returning to the Footy Classified line-up in 2017,” Paterson said.

“Over the years Garry’s played a vital role in the success of Footy Classifed, and we can’t wait to see him back on the station and tackling the season ahead.”

Lyon will join Caroline Wilson, Matthew Lloyd and Craig Hutchison on Footy Classified.

He will not return to The Footy Show.

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The woman who replaced him, Rebecca Maddern, recently told the Herald Sun it was a good thing Lyon was back on television.

“We all know he has had his issues over the past few months, and it’s a great thing that he is feeling in the capacity to get back to work after his troubles,” she said in the Birdcage in Flemington.

“I think it’s a great thing that he will be returning to TV next year.”

Nine will launch it’s 2017 programming schedule at an event in Melbourne tomorrow afternoon.

Lyon won’t be at the launch today, but some of The Footy Show hosts are expected.

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@LukeDennehy