Former footballer Tony Adams has spoken out about his decision to leave Strictly Come Dancing.
The 56-year-old cited a knee injury during Saturday's live show as his reason for departing the dance show. The Arsenal legend and partner Katya Jones were due to be in the dance-off with Dianne Buswell and Tyler West before his shock exit.
There were some rumours on social media that Tony and his professional partner Katya Jones were feuding backstage, but this has been shot down by his wife, Poppy Teacher, as reported by the Mirror.
Tony spoke to Rylan Clark on Strictly: It Takes Two about his departure, and had great things to say about the show.
He explained: "They gave me the choice, they were very professional the BBC.
"The physio was first class, they said 'It's your decision Tony, do you want to go for it?' my wife said 'My mum's coming, you've got to dance', I looked into her eyes and she went 'Hmm... Come on!'"
He added: "It's been amazing, this has been great, coming on here every week and chatting to you guys, I've loved this more than the dancing.
"It's been incredible, I came onto the show to get the message of mental health out there."
Fans took to social media to praise Tony, with one writing: "Three (non-alcoholic) cheers to Tony, making addiction recovery and mental health a central part of his Strictly story #ItTakesTwo."
Another added: "Fair f**ks to Tony, he's done a power of good for raising awareness of mental health issues! #ItTakesTwo."
"I know it was right for him to go, but I would've loved to have seen Tony having the time of his life at Blackpool #ittakestwo," tweeted a third.
Earlier on Monday, Tony's wife spoke about his decision to withdraw and denied that it was down to any backstage drama following claims of a feud between him and Katya.
Poppy told the MailOnline: "Taking part has taken its toll and it was time to drop out, he has gone much further on the show than he had hoped and it was time to leave.
"They (Tony and Katya) are both punchy people and give as good as they get."
Poppy went on to explain that although some claimed Tony taking part in the show was a joke, he took his rehearsals and participation very seriously.
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