Gary Lineker says he's been 'silenced' as he pulls out of BBC show 11 months after suspension
ok.co.ukGary Lineker has been forced to pull out of Match Of The Day as he says "I've been silenced".The former England footballer has been hosting the Premier League highlights show since 1999 and has rarely missed a show, but will not be present tonight (Saturday, 10 February).
Instead, Gary will be replaced by Mark Chapman.Taking to X, formerly Twitter, to share the news Gary wrote: "Some good news for some: I’ve been silenced….with a rotten cold that seems to be lasting forever. "Hate missing hosting @BBCMOTD but I’ll be watching." The sports broadcaster was inundated with well-wishers from fans as one wrote: "Get well soon Gary, we need you in strong voice!" "Get well soon Gary!", a second commented.
A Newcastle fan also joked: "Get well soon Gary. And you’re doing the right thing. We don’t want Wor Al catching it." This isn't the first time Gary has missed a show as last year he was dropped for a week after criticising the UK government's immigration policy.
However, this move backfired on the BBC as all other commentators and pundits refused to participate in the show. Gary has been the main host of Match Of The Day for almost 25 impressive years and when he joined, became BBC Sport's highest-paid presenter.
Read more on ok.co.uk