After a remarkable 26-year stint, Gary Lineker is preparing to step down as the host of BBC's flagship show, Match of the Day. The 64-year-old has worked with numerous pundits during his tenure and recently revealed which one he will miss the most.
Lineker will bid adieu to the programme at the end of this season. He took over from former anchor Des Lynam in 1999 and has since become a familiar face for sports fans tuning into Match of The Day. However, this does not mark his retirement from broadcasting; he will continue hosting FA Cup matches next campaign and front BBC's coverage for the 2026 World Cup before retiring.
Unexpected favourite
Over his lengthy tenure, Lineker has shared screen space with several pundits on Match of The Day. However, he confessed that there is one particular guest whose company he would especially miss - Danny Murphy. Alan Shearer and Micah Richards were ruled out as potential favourites because they will continue appearing alongside Lineker on their popular podcast,
Gary Lineker, BBC Pundit, said:
'There's no point saying Alan or Micah, as I'll still be working with them. I don't like any of the others!'
'That's a joke… I'll miss Danny Murphy, a really underrated pundit, analytically good, and always fun to be around.'
Danny Murphy first appeared on Match Of The Day in August 2013 after having played for Liverpool between 1997-2004 and earning nine senior caps for England. Now aged 48 years old, Murphy has been a regular in the studio, making more than 170 guest appearances, just 22 shy of Match of The Day icon Alan Hansen. He is also a Mail Sport columnist and works with BBC 5Live and talkSPORT, frequently providing invaluable insights into the game's biggest talking points.
Trio to fill Lineker's shoes
Lineker's departure will leave big shoes to fill. However, it was confirmed in January that Sky Sports' Kelly Cates and BBC regulars Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will share the role. They are set to rotate in and out of the prestigious hot seat as they carry forward Lineker's legacy on Match Of The Day.
Gary Lineker’s departure from Match Of The Day marks an end of an era but his influence on sports broadcasting will continue through his future engagements with FA Cup matches and World Cup coverage. His tribute to Danny Murphy highlights not only their camaraderie but also underscores Murphy’s significant contribution as a pundit.
