Who could replace Gary Lineker on Match of the Day as BBC eye ex-Everton striker replacement

Gary Lineker is preparing to step down from his role as Match of the Day presenter at the end of the season, according to BBC News. The former Everton striker has anchored the popular show since 1999 after replacing Des Lynam and the BBC is now gearing up to find his successor.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast earlier this year, Lineker revealed that he loves working for the BBC. As quoted by the Manchester Evening News, the 63-year-old said: "Match Of The Day is such an iconic show, 60 years is such a long time and I have presented it for 25 of those years.

"Podcast-wise, things have really exceeded our expectations but, at the same time, I love being part of Match Of The Day. I love working for the BBC. I know it has its issues and it has its troubles but I think it’s brilliant. I think sometimes we don’t shout about how good we are at the BBC and what we offer."

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Some big names have been linked with the coveted role. So, with that being said, the ECHO have looked at who could take up the torch and replace Lineker on Match of the Day.

Alex Scott

Alex Scott, who had a successful playing career with Arsenal and England before transitioning into broadcasting post-retirement in 2017, is one contender. She has presented The One Show and has previously worked alongside Lineker as a presenter of the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year programme.

Scott also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2019 and more recently, she has been presenting Football Focus.

Gabby Logan

Gabby Logan, a former gymnast, has often stepped in for Lineker on MOTD and led the BBC’s coverage of the Lionesses' triumphant Women’s Euros campaign in 2023. She has also covered Six Nations rugby and the last four summer Olympic Games for the BBC.

Mark Chapman

Mark Chapman, known as 'Chappers', is another potential candidate. He regularly presents Match of the Day 2, which features highlights of Premier League action on Sunday evenings. The 51-year-old is also a key part of the BBC’s radio football coverage, presenting Sports Report on 5 Live and the Monday Night Club on the same channel.

Jason Mohammad

Mohammad first joined the BBC in 1997 and continues to host the organisation’s Final Score show every Saturday afternoon. Often stepping in for Lineker and Chapman on both Match of the Day shows, the Welsh presenter is one of the BBC’s top earners.

Kelly Somers

Kelly Somers became the sixth woman to present an edition of Match of the Day in 2020 and has held various roles across the BBC. A regular face during England men's matches at the 2020 Euros and the 2022 World Cup, Somers has led Channel 4’s coverage of the national team for the past two years.