Gary Lineker jokes about BBC Match of the Day exit as replacement 'contender' emerges
Gary Lineker's time with the BBC is winding down and the Match of the Day host will depart come 2026 as questions are asked over who will eventually replace him
by Samuel Meade · The MirrorGary Lineker produced a witty joke about his Match of the Day future as he hosted the show for the first time since his exit was confirmed.
The Premier League was back this weekend following the latest international break and Lineker was bringing viewers their usual goal highlights. The BBC last week announced Lineker will leave the role, which he has had since 1999, at the end of the current season.
It has led to plenty of debate regarding who may replace him with pundit Alan Shearer opening the show - highlighting his broadcast skills - with a statement. He said directly to the camera: “All good things must come to an end.”
Lineker replied by joking: “Yes Alan – Lee Carsley’s England reign is over. It’s back to business in the Premier League.”
Carsley's interim stint has just come to an end following the recent win over the Republic of Ireland. Thomas Tuchel will now take charge as he plots England's route to the World Cup - where Lineker will present BBC's coverage.
The former England international will remain with the corporation after both parties agreed to a contract extension through to the international tournament in 2026. He will host BBC's coverage of the FA Cup in the next season and Lineker will also present the Match of the Day: Top 10 podcast for BBC Sounds
The BBC has said future plans for Match Of The Day would be “announced in due course” with Mark Chapman, Alex Scott, Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan among those being tipped as candidates to replace him. Lineker has told the BBC who is preference is when it comes to sourcing a replacement, but has kept that private.
The 63-year-old said on his successor: "Obviously I don't know who it'll be, and I would never tell publicly my preference. I don't think that'd be the right thing to do but whoever it is, I would say be yourself."
He added on the Rest Is Football podcast: "I feel this is now the right time. I think [with] the next [highlights] contract, they're looking to do Match of the Day slightly differently, so I think it makes sense for someone else to take the helm."
The BBC has decided no to reveal its exact plans for the highlight show, stating that more information will be shared "in due course". A statement hinted at changes being made, suggesting that the programme will continue to adapt: "The show continually evolves for changing viewing habits bringing its unique and unmatched analysis and commentary across all platforms."
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