Neil Jones took to Twitter to address his shock injury which ruled him out of performing with Alex Scott on Strictly Come Dancing tonight. At the beginning of the show, hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman revealed the pro was unable to dance and would be replaced by Kevin Clifton. In view of his 69,000 followers, Neil broke his silence on his replacement and wrote: “I’m gutted tonight I won’t be able to dance because I was injured earlier today but I know @AlexScott will smash it tonight, she’s worked hard all week and she’s in safe hands with @keviclifton.”
Fans took to the comments section to share their thoughts on Neil’s absence.
One person wrote: “It won’t be the same without you, take care!”
Another added: “Aw Neil you are my favourite! It’s not the same without you. Hope you have a speedy recovery and back on the dance floor soon x.”
“I’m so sorry!!! We will miss you A LOT but I have full trust in our girl Alex (and Kevin) and I know she’s going to smash it! I’m wishing you a speedy recovery,” a third person commented.
A fourth fan wrote: “Won’t be the same without you. Hope you recover soon. Good luck @AlexScott and @keviclifton.”
Alex and Neil were set to perform their Couples’ Choice Street/Commercial routine to the Ghostbusters theme for Halloween Week.
The former Arsenal footballer will now be dancing with Kevin, who was eliminated from the competition with his partner Anneka Rice in week two.
Neil’s statement about his injury comes after he and Alex opened up about their relationship in light of romance rumours.
Speaking candidly to Hello! Magazine, the pair insisted that although they are both single, they are just friends and are focusing on the competition.
Neil told the publication: “There’s nothing on our minds but the show – we don’t have time to think about anything else.”
Addressing his recent split from fellow Strictly pro Katya Jones, 30, the dancer added: “I’m single but I haven’t even thought about dating.
“Coming out of a long-term relationship I’m just focusing on Strictly.”
Alex also confirmed she is single following speculation over her relationship status.
She candidly revealed: “I’m single but it’s not like I need to find someone.
“I like things to happen organically and if someone comes into my life and we get on, then great.
“It’s not like I need to go searching for it.”
Strictly Come Dancing continues tonight at 6.35pm on BBC One.