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      Former Real Madrid star’s house left a charred wreck after horrific fire as partner says ‘we are still in shock’

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      FORMER Real Madrid striker Borja Mayoral has suffered a devastating fire at his home that has left his family in “shock”.The Spanish forward, 27, who now plays for Getafe, saw the top floor of his Madrid chalet go up in flames.Borja Mayoral has revealed a fire ripped through his Madrid homeCredit: GettyMayoral’s wife Favia Natalini shared a picture of the devastating impact of the blazeCredit: Instagram @flavianataliniFlavia also thanked the firefighters for putting it outCredit: Instagram @flavianataliniMayoral and Flavia thanked those who sent them well wishesCredit: RexTwo fire engines arrived at the scene to put out the fire.According to Marca, the first two floors were damaged along with the chalet.And Mayoral took to Instagram to provide an update for his 926,000 followers.He said: “As you may have read in various media outlets, I had a problem at home today.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Luckily, my family and I are fine and everything has just been a scare.”Thank you very much for your messages of concern.”Mayoral’s partner, Flavia Natalini, posted a picture of the destroyed house showing the rubble that has been left behind.And she said: “You’re asking us a lot about what happened to us… We’re still in shock but we’re all fine and that’s the important thing. Thank you all very much.”Most read in FootballMayoral spent seven years at Real Madrid between 2015 and 2022Credit: AP:Associated PressAlongside another image of the firefighters who put out the blaze, she added: “You are heroes. Thank you.”Mayoral spent seven years at Real Madrid but played just 33 games for the club, scoring seven goals.He won the Champions League and Club World Cup during his time with the Spanish giants, before he eventually departed permanently in 2022 for Getafe.Since penning a long-term deal at the club, Mayoral has scored 26 goals in 69 matches for Getafe.Last season, he racked up his best goal return with 17 in 31 appearances. More

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      Frank Lampard one of ‘EIGHTY’ applicants for vacant EFL job as owner confirms Chelsea legend has applied

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      FRANK LAMPARD could be set for a return to management with Coventry City – but there’s no shortage of competition. The 46-year-old has been out of work since a spell as interim boss of Chelsea last year. Frank Lampard has been tipped for a return to managementCredit: RexThe former England midfielder endured a miserable tenure with EvertonCredit: GettyLampard has managed the Blues, Derby County, and Everton since hanging up his boots in 2016. The three-time Premier League champion is now in the running for the vacant managerial position at Coventry.Sky Blues owner Doug King has confirmed Lampard is being considered for the role. The club parted ways with Mark Robins last week after a poor start to the Championship season. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLKing told Sky Sports: “We’ve received a huge amount of CVs from high-quality people of which Frank is one. “We’ve done nothing on that process. But clearly we’re in the international break, and we’ll be assessing everything.”We’ll work out who’s going to make the shortlist and we’ll go from there.”King also confirmed as many as 80 applications have been received by the second-tier club. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSRobins’ departure was a shock among Coventry fans, who watched the former Man Utd star drag them from League Two to the cusp of the top-flight. Coventry reached the Championship playoff final in 2022/23, losing on penalties to Luton Town. Frank Lampard hints at next job after Chelsea sacking he’d be ‘crazy’ to turn downRobins guided them to a ninth-placed finish and an FA Cup semi-final last year, but despite serious investment the club currently sit 17th. Following the surprise sacking last week, Coventry legend Steve Ogrizovic spoke of his “shock” at the decision. Ogrizovic told BBC CWR: “Very few things in football shock me but this is a poor decision.”Mark Robins had more to give, look at the club since the day he came in and it’s been year-on-year success and progression.”The sun has been shining on Coventry and they got back into the Championship and along the way there were some great memories for people.”The stadium is full now and it wasn’t when Mark Robins first came to the club.”Mark Robins was sacked by Coventry City last weekCredit: PALampard has not had a managerial position since an interim role with Chelsea in 2023Credit: GettyLampard is a free agent after being sacked by Everton last year.He left the club 19th place in the Premier League, earning just 12 wins from 44 games in charge. Earlier this month, Lampard was tipped to take over from under-fire West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui.READ MORE SUN STORIESFormer Sky pundit Jeff Stelling told talkSPORT: “Is it time, if Lopetegui goes, for West Ham to bring Frank Lampard home? Just a thought. “He is available. He’s been mentioned in connection with the Roma job, but West Ham would be ideal for him.” More

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      Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes helps rescue stricken passenger while heading to Portugal international duty

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      BRUNO FERNANDES has been hailed as a “hero” after helping a passenger on a plane while heading to Portugal.Following his Man of the Match performance in Manchester United’s 3-0 win over Leicester on Sunday, Fernandes had began the journey to link up with Portugal over the international break.Bruno Fernandes remarkably helped an unwell passenger on an easyJet flightCredit: ReutersThe incident happened on an easyJet flight from Manchester to LisbonCredit: GettyThe Red Devils’ captain was taking an easyJet flight from Manchester to Lisbon with team-mate Diogo Dalot.However, the 30-year-old was quick to act when he noticed a man appearing to pass out at the back of the plane.As fellow passenger Susanna Lawson told Business Cloud, Fernandes was heard shouting: “Excuse me! We need help! Excuse me! We need help!”Lawson was heading to Web Summit – where Man Utd CEO Omar Berrada, runner Sir Mo Farah, Manchester City star Ruben Dias and Sky Sports’ Melissa Reddy will be among those speaking – when the drama unfolded. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLShe said: “Bruno went to the loo at the back of the plane during the flight.”(We) suddenly heard a shout for assistance which those within hearing distance looked back, including us as we were toward the back.”Bruno was holding a gentleman who looked like he was passing out. “I don’t know if he lost consciousness or not.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Members of the crew rushed to the back to help. “There was a spare seat at the back which Bruno helped the gentleman to sit down on.What does Bruno Fernandes’ celebration mean ?”He stayed at the back with them and made sure he was OK. “It might have been about 5-10 minutes and then he made his way back to his seat but again very unassuming. “He wasn’t looking for any attention on himself.“He was very unassuming. “Unless you knew who he was you would never have known he was anyone special if you know what I mean.“We were not sure whether to ask him for a selfie because of that. “He didn’t mention Man Utd at all.”At the end of the flight, Lawson managed to grab a photo with Fernandes.Man Utd ratings v LeicesterHere’s how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the Red Devils.ANDRE ONANA – 7Stood tall when Ndidi went through on goal and a decent tip round the post from Ayew as Leicester tried to get back in it.NOUSSAIR MAZROUAI – 6Lucky to escape tackle on Buonanotte without any punishment. Supplied the cross from the left which led to United’s second goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Made a key second half clearance when the Foxes were trying to find their way back into the game. Fairly comfortable afternoon for home defenders.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 7Spent the first hour at centre half then showed his versatility by switching to left-back when Dalot was forced off.DIOGO DALOT – 6Did a steady job keeping the Foxes at bay but then taken off on the hour – presumably due to injury as United had to reshuffle their defence.CASEMIRO – 7Better from the veteran Brazilian who helped United take command of the game before getting the chance to put his feet up late on.MANUEL UGARTE – 6Great challenge on Soumare showed what he is all about and some signs he is finding his feet. Will be looking forward to arrival of former boss Amorim.AMAD DIALLO – 7Delightful backheel for Fernandes to curl home the opener and could have scored himself. The Ivorian has had a good week.  BRUNO FERNANDES – 8Presented with a shirt to mark his 250th appearance before the game and will be getting more plaudits for his performance here. Involved in all three goals.MARCUS RASHFORD – 5Given the nod to start ahead of Garnacho but did not do enough to justify the faith of Van Nistelrooy. No surprise when he was replaced by the Argentine on the hour.RASMUS HOJLUND – 5A largely ineffective afternoon for the Danish forward before he was subbed late on. Nothing wrong with his work-rate but does he have the quality Amorim will want?She added: “When I asked him politely for a selfie as we were leaving the plane he was absolutely lovely and actually took the selfie himself.”I praised him for looking after the ill passenger. “Honestly if you didn’t know who he was you would have just thought he was any other passenger.”Fernandes’ match-winning exploits at Old Trafford on Sunday marked his 250th appearance for the club.These 250 games have seen him score 83 goals and add 73 assists.When he returns to Carrington after international matches against Poland and Croatia in the Uefa Nations League, Fernandes will be greeted by a new head coach.Ruben Amorim has arrived in England to take over the Man Utd job after leaving his own role at Sporting Lisbon.The club’s last four games had been managed by Ruud van Nistelrooy on an interim basis, with three of those four games since Erik ten Hag’s sacking ending in victory and the other being a draw.Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro.However, the Dutchman has now left the club with Amorim bringing his own backroom staff in to oversee his new squad.A statement from the club on Van Nistelrooy’s departure said: “Manchester United can confirm that Ruud van Nistelrooy has left the club. “Ruud rejoined in the summer and has taken charge of the team for the past four matches as interim head coach. Ruud is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend.”We are grateful for his contribution and the way in which he has approached his role throughout his time with the club. He will always be very welcome at Old Trafford.”Rene Hake, Jelle ten Rouwelaar and Pieter Morel have also left the club.Before Amorim was announced as the new Man Utd coach, Fernandes tipped the 39-year-old to be a future Premier League manager. He said: “He is a coach who has shown that he is prepared. Being Sporting’s coach and winning championships is not easy. “Sporting went 20 years without winning a championship, and then Mr. Rúben came and won two. That in itself shows that his work is being done well.”Now, whether he can do the same in England or Spain or anywhere else, we will never know until we get there. But I am sure that Mr . Rúben Amorim’s qualities are there for all to see.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Since coach Rúben Amorim arrived at Sporting, I think they have been one of the teams playing the best football, they have been very consistent, the signings have been very successful. “They are in a very good moment. They have just become champions last year and this year they are already starting in the lead. They are a team that is very well prepared.”Ruben Amorim leaves Sporting on a highBy Charlie WyettRUBEN AMORIM would have preferred to leave Lisbon in a blaze of glory after winning a third Primeira Liga title.Yet football does not work like that. And in what was surely his final game before taking charge of Manchester United, Amorim prepared to say his goodbyes at a half-empty Estadio Jose Alvalade in a League Cup quarter-final against Nacional.Sporting won 3-1 thanks to  second-half goals by captain  Morten Hjulmand and Viktor Gyokeres, who scored two.Luis Esteves pulled back for Madeira-based Nacional.The stadium  will be a good deal more lively on Tuesday when Manchester City are here for  a Champions League match — although Amorim should by then have his feet firmly under his desk at Old Trafford.Liverpool and Aston Villa were both interested in Europe’s most sought-after coach. Even City could have been a possible destination post-Pep Guardiola.Yet the United job is one Amorim, 39,  could not turn  down — even if not everyone saw it that way at Sporting last night.There is clearly a huge split in the Portuguese club’s fan base over their coach leaving at this stage of the season with many believing he should have seen the job through.Yet Amorim, along with the three-man coaching team who are expected to follow him, leaves a club in a much better state than when he arrived here in 2020.Inside the stadium, there was applause — albeit muted — when his name was read out before the game along with the line-ups.And there did not appear to be any jeers when Amorim shuffled out from the tunnel awkwardly towards the dugout.So, while his departure is hard to take for some, none of the fans will forget his legacy.This is a club which is back as the dominant force in Portugal. Even this term, Sporting have won their first nine league games, scoring 30 goals and conceding just two.They are also eighth in the Champions League table, which is one hell of an effort.In contrast, Lisbon was not exactly hit by League Cup fever last night.Amorim made lots of changes, which saw Sporting’s star man Gyokeres, the former Coventry striker, start on the bench.There was, however, a first appearance in six weeks for former Tottenham winger Marcus Edwards. He is certainly one player who has been transformed by Amorim since arriving at the club from Vitoria in 2022 and will be sorry to see the coach leave.While he changed his team, Amorim stuck with his tried and trusted formation of a back three.It will certainly be something Manchester United’s fans will have to get used to over the  coming months.But looking at the Premier League table, none of them will be complaining about the change. More

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      Erik ten Hag ‘could make immediate return after Man Utd sacking’ but battling Frank Lampard and Graham Potter

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      SACKED Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag could make an immediate return to management with Italian giants Roma.The Dutch gaffer is out of work after Ineos called time on his Old Trafford adventure last month.Erik ten Hag is being lined up for an immediate return to management with RomaCredit: GettyThe Italians are looking for their third boss of the season after sacking Ivan JuricCredit: AlamyTen Hag won 70 of his 128 games at United after joining them from Ajax in 2022.But he picked up just three wins from the first nine games of the new Premier League season to leave the Red Devils in the bottom half of the table.Ten Hag was replaced by interim Ruud van Nistelrooy, who in turn has been booted for Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim.But United’s former boss could now be set for an immediate return to the beautiful game.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLItalian outfit Roma are on the hunt for their third manager of the campaign after sacking Ivan Juric at the weekend.The Serb struggled to pick up the pieces left by the brutal axing of club legend Daniele De Rossi in September.Roma have won just three of their 12 Serie A games and are already 13 points off leaders Napoli.Big things were expected of the capital club after a summer spree saw them land stars including Ukraine striker Artem Dobvyk and Word Cup winner Mats Hummels.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut De Rossi failed to win any of his first four games being getting chopped.While Juric won just four of 12 in all competitions, with his final game a 3-2 home defeat to Bologna on Sunday.Emotional Ruud van Nistelrooy given incredible ovation at Old Trafford with Man Utd interim still unclear on his futureGraham Potter is a top candidate for the Roma jobCredit: PAFellow ex-Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has also been linkedCredit: GettyIl Messaggero claims Ten Hag has now emerged as a contender to take charge at Roma, who are owned by American businessman Dan Friedkin.He reportedly favours hiring a manager from outside the Italian game.And Ten Hag could soon be summoned to a meeting in London, where Friedkin has apparently been holding talks with several other candidates.It’s reckoned former Chelsea boss Graham Potter is a leading contender to take charge at Roma.While Blues legend Frank Lampard could also be in line for the role.He has been tipped as a replacement for Mark Robins at Coventry City too.And it remains to be seen who Friedkin opts for ahead of a tough run of games against Napoli, Tottenham and Atalanta. More

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      Legendary Champions League stadium unrecognisable as rival fans ‘get backache just looking at’ 104,000-seater rebuild

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      ONE of Europe’s most beloved football stadiums is currently undergoing a facelift – and fans are not best pleased.The iconic Nou Camp stadium in Barcelona closed in June 2023 ahead of a complete redevelopment.New images of the redeveloped Nou Camp have been revealedCredit: XFans don’t seem to be pleased with the seatsCredit: XIt was completely demolished to make room for a new £1.25billion stadium that will have a capacity of 104,000.Barcelona have since been housed at the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium around five kilometres away.Club officials are hoping to move back into the Nou Camp within the next few months.But the stadium will not be fully complete until 2026.Read More in FootballSome new images of the development were shared on social media last week, but fans were far from impressed.One of the biggest complaints was the apparent lack of padding on seats.One person took to X to write: “What sh***y seats. Low cost seats with 100% comfort 😂 or you get a cushion or your butt will get square 😂.”Another commented: “I got a backache just looking at those seats.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWhile a third simply said: “Horrible.”The stadium improvements are set to earn Barcelona an additional £25m in revenue each year.Inside iconic abandoned stadium that hosted England matches before falling into disrepair when club went bust Hansi Flick’s side currently sit top of the La Liga table, six points ahead of close rivals Real Madrid. More

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      BBC speaks out after Gary Lineker QUITS Match of the Day & leaves for good after fronting 2026 World Cup coverage

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      THE BBC have confirmed that Gary Lineker will quit Match of the Day and leave for good after fronting coverage for the 2026 World Cup.It comes after The Sun revealed the former England striker will stop presenting Match of the Day at the end of this season.The BBC have now confirmed Gary Lineker will quit Match of the DayCredit: AlamyThe star has presented the flagship footie show since 1999Credit: BBCBut a new deal with the BBC will keep him on our screensCredit: GettyNow, the BBC have officially confirmed that “world-class presenter” Lineker will quit the hit show.Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, said: “Gary is a world-class presenter, and we’re delighted that he’ll lead our coverage of the next World Cup and continue to lead our live coverage of the FA Cup.“After 25 seasons Gary is stepping down from MOTD. We want to thank him for everything he has done for the show, which continues to attract millions of viewers each week. “He’ll be hugely missed on the show but we’re so happy he is staying with the BBC to present live football.”Read More on Gary LinekerIt comes as…Lineker, who will take a substantial pay cut, will have hosted MOTD for 25 years when he steps down.But – as part of an 18-month contract extension – the 63-year-old will stay on to anchor the Corporation’s 2025/26 FA Cup coverage before bowing out on the biggest stage at the next World Cup.Most read in FootballBreaking his silence today, Lineker said: “I’m delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen.”Anchoring the World Cup, which is being held in Canada, Mexico and the USA, will mean Lineker ends his time covering the most prestigious tournament in football.Gary Lineker’s best Match of the Day momentsThe BBC statement added: “The BBC and Gary Lineker have agreed in principle a contract extension through to the 2026 World Cup. “Gary will lead the coverage of the tournament, as England once again try to land a first major trophy since 1966, the other Home Nations look to qualify and Lionel Messi aims to retain the trophy he won with Argentina.”Gary will also host BBC Sport’s coverage of the FA Cup in the 2025/26 season, 35 years on from lifting the trophy as a player.”The BBC confirmed that Lineker will continue with the MOTD Top Ten podcast and the BBC will also host the hugely popular The Rest is Football podcast on BBC Sounds.The ex-Three Lions bagsman is understood to be on new terms which which will see his salary reduced significantly.He currently receives £1.35million, making him the highest paid broadcaster at the BBC.Over the past two months there has been frenzied speculation that the star was leaving the BBC’s flagship football programme. Last night a BBC source said: “Gary absolutely adores Match of the Day, and has been incredibly happy at the BBC.“But he has been at the helm since 1999, and by the time he leaves, he will have been at the Beeb for 30 years.“He wants to leave on a high – and if England win the World Cup, it doesn’t get much higher.“It’s one of the industry’s worst kept secrets that the new BBC Director of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski and Gary aren’t exactly close. “The former is very keen to make his mark by bringing in new faces, and slashing wage bills.“Negotiations have been ongoing for the past six weeks and finally a deal has been struck that everyone is pleased with.”The source paid a touching tribute to Lineker, adding: “Gary is incredibly popular with both players and viewers, and news of his departure will send shock-waves around the Corporation. “In other words, no-one is immune from change.”They added: “Gary will be 65 when he leaves; frankly, he isn’t getting younger. and just feels the time is right to focus solely on his mogul interests outside the BBC – namely his Goalhanger podcasting business which is becoming huge Stateside. “BBC execs, meanwhile, will be giving Match of the Day a reboot to keep it fresh in the wake of such a huge departure.”Lineker’s pay cut, in part, is because he will no longer be fronting MOTD – and stand alone payments for the World Cup and FA Cups won’t compensate for this financially.Thanks for the matchday memories, GaryBy Joshua Jones, Sports ReporterFOR as long as I can remember, Gary Lineker has been the No1 football presenter. Born a few years after his retirement as a player, I have no memories of my own of Lineker on the pitch – for Leicester, Everton, Barcelona, Tottenham or England.Instead, I grew up with him as a regular in our lounge on a Saturday night, hosting Match of the Day. For more than two decades, it has been Lineker, the increasingly silver fox, who provided a sense of continuity and stability, an ever-present regardless of which pundits joined him in the studio and which teams made up the Premier League season after season. An astute understanding of the game, his charming persona and his consistency over the years have made him a firm favourite. It is telling that MOTD continues to be such a success and must-watch viewing for so many in an era when all the goals and incidents from Premier League matches are available well before 10.30pm on a Saturday night. He always seemed to hit the right note, too – whether he was required to make a sombre, serious announcement live on air or signing off the show with one of his trademark quips.In recent years, he has not been afraid to speak his mind more and more, thanks in part to his platform as the top-paid BBC presenter and his huge profile outside of the MOTD studio – namely on social media and on his own podcast.His long run in the Match of the Day hot seat means, for many football fans of my era, our whole football journey has been accompanied by Lineker – from the heights of Premier League title wins and FA Cup upsets to the depths of relegation and, of course, heartbreak with England.Because while the bread and butter Match of the Day is the Saturday night highlights, Lineker has also been the main man for the Three Lions’ major tournaments, having to console millions of BBC viewers after gut-wrenching defeats to Croatia, Italy, France and Spain in recent years while he himself, as big a football fan as any of us, mourned another missed opportunity.There is one Lineker moment that stands out above the rest, though. Of course, Lineker Road in my hometown of Leicester beside the old Filbert Street stadium got its name thanks to his goalscoring exploits for his beloved Foxes.But he deserved a far greater honour for what he did on August 13, 2016, famously presenting MOTD in his (very baggy!) pants, coming good on a promise he vowed should Leicester win the title. And somehow he kept a straight face through it all. Ironically, the biggest compliment many people can pay Lineker as MOTD host is that they didn’t know he was a footballer – he is not just an ex-pro who has made a smooth transition from the stadium to the studio but is instead a brilliant TV presenter in his own right, regardless of his status in football.That is proven by the very fact Lineker succeeded the iconic Des Lynam in 1999 as MOTD host so successfully.It will require another fine presenter and plenty of time to follow in his footsteps as a new era begins.They may well succeed, too, but no one will ever really replace Lineker – what he means to so many football fans and the role he plays in countless memories over the last 25 years. Thank you for everything, Gary. Last month a reported leaked email suggested he could be quitting the long-running series mid-season – promoting Gary to joke on air it was his “last game”- before clarifying he meant before the international break. In a recent interview with Esquire Magazine, the ex-Spurs star was asked if he would be stepping down from the Match of the Day hotseat.He replied: “I could do. “Whether that will be the case I don’t know.”At some point, I have to slow down somewhere… I’m getting old.”The Sun previously revealed Lineker – who took over from Des Lynam in 1999 – was keen to stay on MOTD and had offered to take a pay cut.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Sun understands that the BBC is now planning a number of shake-ups to revive the format once Lineker leaves.One proposed change includes a series of presenters with Mark Chapman, currently host of MOTD2, one of the anchors likely to be rotated. Gary Lineker was spotted in public today after it was revealed he is leaving Match of the DayCredit: SelwynPics More

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      Controversial podcast host jokes he could replace Gary Lineker in Match of the Day hotseat after quitting iconic show

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      AN UNLIKELY figure is open to replacing Gary Lineker on Match of the Day – and is even willing to strip to his Y-fronts live on air. The England legend will leave the iconic BBC show in the summer after 25 years at the helm.Gary Lineker will leave Match of the Day at the end of the seasonCredit: PALineker took over hosting Match of the Day from Des Lynam way back in 1999. The 63-year-old announced on Monday he will step aside following six weeks of talks.BBC bosses are now looking to fill Lineker’s considerable boots, with MOTD2 host Mark Chapman in the running. But an unlikely name has jokingly put his hat into the ring – after an endorsement from Lineker’s podcast boss.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLEx-Labour spin doctor Alastair Campbell declared he was ready to take up the job.And he claimed he’d even do it “in his underpants”, a reference to Lineker’s famous on-air strip following Leicester City’s title win in 2016.Campbell appears on the Rest Is Politics podcast, which shares the same production company as Lineker’s popular pod the Rest Is Football.He told co-star Sophie Ridge: “People are obviously taking me presenting Match of the Day more seriously than you are.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCampbell, who was a strategist and spokesman for Tony Blair’s Labour government, received a text live on air. He continued: “Tony Pastor, who is the boss at Goalhanger, which is Gary’s podcast firm [has text me].Gary Lineker’s best Match of the Day moments”He says: ‘You could present Match of the Day in your underpants when Burnley win the league’. “A delighted Campbell, 67, joked: “I will happily do that!”Lineker is stepping aside from Match of the Day, but will still be on our screens for at least another two years.Alastair Campbell has jokingly offered to replace Gary LinekerCredit: AlamyHe has signed an 18-month extension with the BBC, which will see him anchor live FA Cup matches in 2025-26.Lineker is scheduled to leave the BBC for good after presenting coverage of the 2026 World Cup.Who could replace Gary Lineker as MOTD host?GARY LINEKER dropped the shock news that he is QUITTING Match of the Day.The popular presenter, 63, took over hosting duties on the flagship BBC programme from Des Lynam in 1999.But after more than 25 years in the studio hotseat, he has called time on his MOTD gig.But as part of a huge shake-up, the BBC is considering rotating the presenters on a weekly basis.So with Lineker vacating the chair, new names will step into his giant boots. But who could they be?MARK CHAPMANChapman, 51, is the obvious early favourite to follow on from Lineker as MOTD presenter.He already has the gig as MOTD2 host on a Sunday night plus landed the presenting job for the new BBC Champions League highlights show.ALEX SCOTTScott gets the nod from the Beeb bosses when Lineker is away.The former right-back, 40, is used to presenting the Saturday night show as well as live match coverage – plus ticks the box as a former England international.GABBY LOGANLike Scott, Logan, 51, is one of the understudies to step in when Lineker is not available.She has done most gigs since joining the BBC in 2007, including Olympics, Sports Personality of the Year and Final Score.MICAH RICHARDSLineker’s top pick to replace him is exuberant former Man City defender Richards.The departing host told his close pal, 36, on their Stick to Football podcast: “I’d love to see you take over Micah, I think you’d be brilliant in the chair.”JASON MOHAMMADMohammad could earn the “promotion” from Final Score to Match of the Day.The 51-year-old Welshman – who took over from Logan in 2013 – is one of the BBC’s top earners already and is more senior than fellow Final Score and BBC Sport broadcaster Kelly Somers, who could in theory become the main live host for the afternoon slot.JEFF STELLINGHe couldn’t, could he? While Lineker has been the face of Saturday night TV for football fans for years, the face of the afternoons was Stelling in his role as Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday presenter.He would bring plenty of on-screen charisma, wit and legendary TV expertise – but at nearly 70 and currently with talkSPORT, the Hartlepool fan would not be a cheap or long-term appointment.A BBC source said: “Gary absolutely adores Match of the Day and has been incredibly happy at the BBC. READ MORE SUN STORIES”But he has been at the helm since 1999, and by the time he leaves he will have been at the Beeb for 30 years. “He wants to leave on a high – and if England win the World Cup, it doesn’t get much higher.” More

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      Gary Lineker breaks cover as it’s revealed he’ll QUIT Match Of The Day & leave BBC after fronting 2026 World Cup

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      GARY Lineker has been spotted in public for the first time since he broke his silence over leaving Match of the Day.The former England striker spoke out to confirm he will stop presenting the hit show before quitting the BBC after the 2026 World Cup.The former England striker went out for a stroll with his dogCredit: SelwynPicsGary Lineker was spotted out in public after it was revealed he is leaving Match of the DayCredit: SelwynPicsThe star has presented the hit BBC show since 1999Credit: BBCLineker was seen going for a walk with his beloved dog on a chilly Tuesday morning.The ex-Three Lions bagsman donned a thick scarf as he went out for a stroll.Breaking his silence today, the star said: “I’m delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen.”Lineker, who will take a substantial pay cut, will have hosted MOTD for 25 years when he steps down from the show.Read More in FootballBut – as part of an 18-month contract extension – the 63-year-old will stay on to anchor the Corporation’s 2025/26 FA Cup coverage and the next World Cup.It comes as…Anchoring the World Cup, which is being held in Canada, Mexico and USA, will mean he bows out on the biggest stage as he covers the most prestigious tournament in football.Most read in FootballAlex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, said: “Gary is a world-class presenter, and we’re delighted that he’ll lead our coverage of the next World Cup and continue to lead our live coverage of the FA Cup.“After 25 seasons Gary is stepping down from MOTD. We want to thank him for everything he has done for the show, which continues to attract millions of viewers each week. “He’ll be hugely missed on the show but we’re so happy he is staying with the BBC to present live football.”Last night a BBC source said: “Gary absolutely adores Match of the Day, and has been incredibly happy at the BBC.“But he has been at the helm since 1999, and by the time he leaves, he will have been at the Beeb for 30 years.“He wants to leave on a high – and if England win the World Cup, it doesn’t get much higher.“It’s one of the industry’s worst kept secrets that the new BBC Director of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski and Gary aren’t exactly close. The former is very keen to make his mark by bringing in new faces, and slashing wage bills.Gary Lineker’s best Match of the Day moments“Negotiations have been ongoing for the past six weeks and finally a deal has been struck that everyone is pleased with. “Gary is incredibly popular with both players and viewers, and news of his departure will send shockwaves around the Corporation. In other words, no-one is immune from change.“Gary will be 65 when he leaves; frankly, he isn’t getting younger and just feels the time is right to focus solely on his mogul interests outside the BBC – namely his Goalhanger podcasting business which is becoming huge Stateside.“BBC execs, meanwhile, will be giving Match of the Day a reboot to keep it fresh in the wake of such a huge departure.”The former England striker is understood to be on new terms, which will see his salary reduced significantly. He currently receives £1.35m, making him the highest paid broadcaster at the BBC.The pay cut, in part, is because he will no longer be fronting MOTD – and stand alone payments for the World Cup and FA Cups won’t compensate for this financially.Over the past two months there has been frenzied speculation that the star was leaving the BBC’s flagship football programme. Last month a reported leaked email suggested he could be quitting the long-running series mid-season – promoting Gary to joke on air it was his “last game”- before clarifying he meant before the international break. In a recent interview with Esquire Magazine, the ex Spurs star was asked if was stepping down from the Match of the Day hotseat.He replied: “I could do. Whether that will be the case I don’t know.READ MORE SUN STORIES”At some point, I have to slow down somewhere… I’m getting old.”The Sun previously revealed Lineker – who took over from Des Lynam in 1999 – was keen to stay on MOTD and had offered to take a pay cut.Gary has now confirmed he will quit Match of the DayCredit: AlamyThanks for the matchday memories, GaryBy Joshua Jones, Sports ReporterFOR as long as I can remember, Gary Lineker has been the No1 football presenter. Born a few years after his retirement as a player, I have no memories of my own of Lineker on the pitch – for Leicester, Everton, Barcelona, Tottenham or England.Instead, I grew up with him as a regular in our lounge on a Saturday night, hosting Match of the Day. For more than two decades, it has been Lineker, the increasingly silver fox, who provided a sense of continuity and stability, an ever-present regardless of which pundits joined him in the studio and which teams made up the Premier League season after season. An astute understanding of the game, his charming persona and his consistency over the years have made him a firm favourite. It is telling that MOTD continues to be such a success and must-watch viewing for so many in an era when all the goals and incidents from Premier League matches are available well before 10.30pm on a Saturday night. He always seemed to hit the right note, too – whether he was required to make a sombre, serious announcement live on air or signing off the show with one of his trademark quips.In recent years, he has not been afraid to speak his mind more and more, thanks in part to his platform as the top-paid BBC presenter and his huge profile outside of the MOTD studio – namely on social media and on his own podcast.His long run in the Match of the Day hot seat means, for many football fans of my era, our whole football journey has been accompanied by Lineker – from the heights of Premier League title wins and FA Cup upsets to the depths of relegation and, of course, heartbreak with England.Because while the bread and butter Match of the Day is the Saturday night highlights, Lineker has also been the main man for the Three Lions’ major tournaments, having to console millions of BBC viewers after gut-wrenching defeats to Croatia, Italy, France and Spain in recent years while he himself, as big a football fan as any of us, mourned another missed opportunity.There is one Lineker moment that stands out above the rest, though. Of course, Lineker Road in my hometown of Leicester beside the old Filbert Street stadium got its name thanks to his goalscoring exploits for his beloved Foxes.But he deserved a far greater honour for what he did on August 13, 2016, famously presenting MOTD in his (very baggy!) pants, coming good on a promise he vowed should Leicester win the title. And somehow he kept a straight face through it all. Ironically, the biggest compliment many people can pay Lineker as MOTD host is that they didn’t know he was a footballer – he is not just an ex-pro who has made a smooth transition from the stadium to the studio but is instead a brilliant TV presenter in his own right, regardless of his status in football.That is proven by the very fact Lineker succeeded the iconic Des Lynam in 1999 as MOTD host so successfully.It will require another fine presenter and plenty of time to follow in his footsteps as a new era begins.They may well succeed, too, but no one will ever really replace Lineker – what he means to so many football fans and the role he plays in countless memories over the last 25 years. Thank you for everything, Gary.  More