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Alan Brazil was forced to miss another talkSPORT breakfast show at Cheltenham on Thursday after feeling unwell. Brazil, 66, had hosted the show on Tuesday live from the Cheltenham Festival alongside co-host Ally McCoist.

Wednesday was his designated rest day but listeners were surprised to hear the voice of Shebahn Aherne when the show began at 6am. Aherne explained that former Scotland international, who she's previously filled in for, needs a 'little bit more rest'.

Brazil is, however, expected to return for Friday's show ahead of the legendary Gold Cup. "Surprise!" Aherne began on Thursday. "You're listening to talkSPORT Breakfast, it's Shebahn Aherne in for Alan Brazil.

"He needs a little bit more rest today, don't we all? But Alan will be back with you tomorrow morning, fit and firing for Gold Cup Day."

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Co-host Gabby Agbonlahor added: "He's a legend of Cheltenham. And the amount of people that will be excited to see him tomorrow, to hear him, all across the world. Hopefully, he's fine for the morning."

The station also issued an explanation on their website which read: "talkSPORT can confirm the big man is a wee bit unwell and we expect him back on the airwaves for Gold Cup Day. Brazil successfully delivered his iconic programme live from Cheltenham on Tuesday before a pre-agreed rest day on Wednesday.

"And he just needs a little more time to recuperate before returning for Friday's big finale alongside Arsenal legend Ray Parlour. That is the plan, at least."

Although Brazil remains a staple of talkSPORT's coverage both from Cheltenham and their London offices, he hasn't always been in the chair. In 2004, the ex-Manchester United striker was sacked by the station after going AWOL at the horse racing festival.

Three weeks later, Brazil was reinstated. In 2024, he missed another breakfast show, as Virgin Radio host Chris Evans was forced to step in as a last-minute replacement.

Brazil later clarified that his absence wasn't due to alcohol but rather because he was feeling tired after a busy week while coping with a knee problem. The 66-year-old is known for enjoying a tipple at the festival alongside Parlour.

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