Match of the Day host Gary Lineker is reportedly set for talks with the BBC over a new contract, just eight months after the former England striker was suspended for his social media activity criticising the UK government. The row saw fellow MOTD stars Ian Wright and Alan Shearer take part in a Beeb boycott before Lineker was reinstated. After rivals ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 did not enter the rights auction, the BBC will continue to broadcast highlights of top-flight games with Lineker at the helm. Lineker’s contract expires at the end of the BBC’s previous deal following the 2024/25 season, but his £1.35million-a-year contract is set to be renewed. This is despite the controversy surrounding his social media activity in March that saw him suspended.

Source: Express November 17, 2023 10:47 UTC