Gary Lineker’s Era as Match of the Day Presenter Coming to an End
After an impressive 26-year stint as the host of Match of the Day, Gary Lineker will be stepping down at the end of this season. Taking over from Des Lynam in 1999, the former England striker has been a fixture on the BBC’s flagship football program.
Speculation is rife about who will succeed Lineker, and we take a closer look at the frontrunners with odds provided by Betfred as of November 12, 2024.
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Alex Scott – 9/4
Former England international Alex Scott has seamlessly transitioned into the world of presenting after retiring from football in 2017. With appearances on Football Focus and The One Show, as well as filling in for Lineker on MOTD, Scott is a strong contender for the role.
Rumors have circulated about her potential move to the US following criticism of Football Focus’ ratings.
Mark Chapman – 3/1
Mark Chapman, a familiar face on Radio 5 Live and Match of the Day 2, is considered one of the top football presenters at the BBC. His extensive experience in sports broadcasting makes him a strong candidate to succeed Lineker.
In addition to his BBC roles, Chapman also covers EFL Cup matches for Sky Sports.
Kelly Cates – 8/1
Known for her work at Sky Sports, Kelly Cates has built a reputation for herself in the world of sports broadcasting. With her affable personality and Premier League coverage, Cates could be a natural fit to follow in Lineker’s footsteps.
Gabby Logan – 8/1
Gabby Logan, a seasoned BBC presenter, has been a prominent figure in sports coverage for years. With a focus on women’s football and experience covering major events like the Olympics, Logan could bring a fresh perspective to Match of the Day.
Kate Abdo – 16/1
Despite recently signing with CBS, Kate Abdo remains a contender for the Match of the Day role. Known for her work on the Champions League and other major tournaments, Abdo’s experience could make her a dark horse in the race for Lineker’s successor.
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