Former footballer Anton Ferdinand has hit back after facing backlash from ITV Dancing on Ice fans over his continued survival in the competition.
The 39-year-old novice skater demonstrated his skills on Sunday night, securing second place on the programme’s latest leaderboard – tying in the position with The Traitors star Mollie Pearce.
Ferdinand and pro partner Dytrt scored an impressive 38.5
ITV
Despite a strong week, Ferdinand found himself in the dreaded skate-off – pitted against actress Charlie Brooks, who finished in last place with 31.5.
Judges Jayne Torvill, Christopher Dean, Oti Mabuse and Ashley Banjo decided who would be the next couple to be eliminated as both performed their routine again.
Banjo, Mabuse and Torvill chose to save Ferdinand, meaning no vote from Dean was required.
The judges’ verdict divided fans at home, with several accusing the show of being “rigged” in favour of Ferdinand remaining in the competition, something his team has now addressed.
Ferdinand survived the skate-off against Pearce
ITV
“He is focused on the Dancing on Ice journey, he’s loved every minute,” they said, per The Sun.
“The comments aren’t fazing him, he’s faced much worse over the years during playing in the Premier League,” they added.
The statement from Ferdinand’s team comes as he gears up for another round of the competition on Sunday evening with just five stars remaining.
Among the backlash levelled his way was one X user who fired back at the result: “Corrupt and fixed!! Anton should’ve been out weeks ago!!!”
Another asked: “Are the judges blind? They voted the best skaters out. Anton was like a wooden plank on the ice same as last week.”
“Anton should have gone last week it’s because he is strong to do lifts, that’swhat’s saving him. There is no grace or style on the ice,” a third slammed.