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    Dan Walker breaks silence on Match Of The Day talks after becoming new favourite to replace Gary Lineker

    THE race for Gary Lineker’s job presenting Match Of The Day is gathering pace.But his hotly tipped replacement, Dan Walker, who has returned to football programming for Prime Video, insists there’s only one of Gary’s jobs he fancies – being the face of Walkers crisps.Dan Walker has broken his silence on Match Of The Day talks after becoming a new favourite to replace Gary LinekerCredit: SplashGary, 63, revealed in November he will leave the programme at the end of the seasonCredit: X @BBCMOTDAsked about the rumours he’s in line for the BBC One’s flagship show at the TRIC Christmas lunch, former Football Focus host Dan said: “Match Of The Day is a brilliant programme and I love it and I’m going to cover football now.“But If there’s something Gary’s got that I would like, it’d be his crisp contract.“Because, you know, my surname, it couldn’t be any better, could it?”Gary, 63, revealed in November he will leave the programme at the end of the season after 25 years as host.READ MORE ON GARY LINEKERA number of names have been linked with the vacancy including Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Kelly Somers.Regular Match of the Day pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards are also in the frame.Recent data showed Shearer to be the viewers’ preference to succeed Lineker.But it appears ex-Manchester City right-back Richards, 36, has been dismissed by Lineker.Most read in FootballSpeaking on The Rest Is Football, Richards attempted to rule himself out of the running.He said: “You know what, can I just get this out there, right.Dan Walker reveals snow disaster as he’s forced to abandon car”When people are saying Micah Richards is potentially going to take over a presenter, I think it’s a massive disrespect to all the presenters out there. There’s so many talented people.”Just because I’m a pundit, I can give insight to a player, I feel I know the game, I watch tactics.””But to take over presenting one of the most iconic shows, not just in sport, but that BBC’s ever had?”He then went on to add: “There’s so many others they can pick over me, I just can’t believe they would even put my name in the hat.”Lineker then playfully put Richards in his place by insisting there was no chance of him being chosen anyway.He said: “Micah, you can totally relax. I can assure you they won’t be asking you.”Chapman remains the favourite to replace Lineker.JILLY: I’M HOT FOR RIVALS 2IF THE raunchy action in Rutshire left you gagging for more Rivals, then Disney+ has an early Christmas present for you.Confirming my TV Biz exclusive, the streamer has said that a second series is on the way after the cliffhanger ending of the first.While it isn’t yet certain that David Tennant, Victoria Smurfit and Aidan Turner will return to their roles, writer Jilly Cooper, whose novel the series is based on, is thrilled at the news.Yesterday, she said: “Nearly 40 years after my novel Rivals was published, I’ve adored seeing the world fall in love with my beloved characters – Rutshire’s finest.“I’m orgasmic with excitement and cannot wait for the return of my superhero Rupert Campbell-Black and the rest of the characters in season two.”Well, that’s all just jolly super, isn’t it.IT’S WHO DARES WINGSThe nightclubs of London’s Soho in 1918 are brought alive to eye-popping effect in shots from upcoming BBC One drama Dope GirlsCredit: Sanne GaultThe series lifts the lid on a moment of sexual liberation, decadence and often intoxicating glamour as women took matters into their own handsCredit: © 2023 Sony Pictures TelevisionWHO would have thought you’d see such daring outfits just after World War One?The nightclubs of London’s Soho in 1918 are brought alive to eye-popping effect in these shots from upcoming BBC One drama Dope Girls.The series lifts the lid on a moment of sexual liberation, decadence and often intoxicating glamour as women took matters into their own hands to earn themselves a living.Single mother Kate Galloway, played by Julianne Nicholson, is at the centre of the capital’s exploding club scene as she sets up a nightspot to provide for her daughter Evie, and enters into a life of criminal activities under the nose of the police.Eliza Scanlen plays Violet Davies, one of the country’s first wave of female police officers, who is assigned to go undercover at the club and investigate the illicit goings-on.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe women she runs into include ballsy Billie Cassidy (Umi Myers), a dazzlingly bohemian dancer.Take your seats, ladies and gents, and tune in next year.MURDER IN ROYAL CIRCLESTHE makers of The Crown have landed their next royal project, The Lady.The four-part drama for ITV will tell the story of Jane Andrews, the Duchess of York’s former aide who was convicted of murder.With filming to begin next year in Grimsby and London, it will chart the rise and fall of Jane, who landed the plum role as the royal’s dresser after answering an advert in magazine The Lady.Her fall from grace began when she lost her job and fell in love with businessman Thomas Cressman, who she was later convicted of killing.Sian McWilliams, of production company Left Bank Pictures, said: “The Lady deftly explore the tragic series of events and poses the question – who is the real Jane Andrews?” More

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    Major broadcasting change as Formula E returns to free-to-air TV with new-look presenting team

    FORMULA E has announced a major change to its broadcast rights that will see it return to free-to-air TV.The motorsport had previously been shown on BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 before it was effectively placed behind a paywall on TNT Sports for the first time in its 10-year history.Formula E have announced a major partnership with ITVCredit: GettyIt has now been announced it will return to ITV for the 2024/25 season, with live broadcasts and highlights being available on the ITVX app and ITV4.That includes the Season 11 opener in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on December 7.Formula E chief media officer, Aarti Dabas, said: “We’re delighted to offer UK and Ireland fans even greater access to our incredible championship via our two fantastic media partners – TNT Sport and now ITV – giving them more ways to watch and taking them even closer to the sport.”With our new post-race weekend highlights show on ITV, fans will be able to get bespoke content directly from the paddock helping educate, excite and entertain new and loyal fans alike. READ MORE IN MOTORSPORT”We can’t wait to bring our fans more track-side action and continue to grow the sport.”The channel switch will also see a new-look presenting line-up, with sacked BBC star Jermaine Jenas also dropped from his role on the all-electric racing series.Pioneering presenter Nicki Shields will return to lead the line-up and will become the first-ever female lead presenter in the series’ history.She has been a prominent figure both on and off the track since making her debut in 2014, and was the first female lead commentator for F1 Academy in its 2024 debut season.Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOn her new role, Shields said: “I vividly remember my first Formula E race in Beijing 2014, and 10 years later, my passion for the sport remains just as strong.”I’m thrilled to return to Formula E as lead presenter for Season 11. It’s an honour to share the excitement and drama of this incredible sport with fans around the world. Watch moment Brad Pitt ‘faints’ after heavy crash at Las Vegas Grand Prix – but all is not as it seems”With our talented presenting team, we’re committed to bringing viewers closer to the action than ever before. Bring on São Paulo!”She will be joined by racing drivers Billy Monger and Catie Munnings on the team, as well as sports commentator Tom Brooks.Pundits who will appear throughout the season will include David Coulthard, Karun Chandhok, Andre Lotterer, James Rossiter and Alan McNish.Saunders Carmichael-Brown and Alexa Rendell are also returning as pitlane reporters.Formula E’s CEO Jeff Dodds admitted before the London season finale that the move to place the racing series behind a paywall had led to “numbers that have been lower than we wanted”.Pascal Wehrlein was crowned as champion last season, narrowly beating Mitch Evans by six points. More

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    Paul Dickenson dead at 74: BBC commentator who covered Jessica Ennis-Hill’s iconic gold at London 2012 dies

    FORMER BBC Sport commentator Paul Dickenson has passed away aged 74.Dickenson, who specialised in athletics and winter sports for over two decades, died at home on Tuesday.Paul Dickenson has passed awayCredit: ALAN TOWSE/FAMOUSDickenson worked in commentary for over two decadesCredit: Action ImagesHis death was announced by the BBC on Wednesday evening.Fans took to social media to pay tribute to the man with an iconic voice.One person wrote: “Really sad to read that Paul Dickenson has died. One of my favourite commentators of all time, his voice is very much missed.”While another commented: “Just seen the very sad news that Paul Dickenson has passed away.READ MORE IN SPORT”Having grown up listening to him, it took me a while to pluck up the courage to talk to him when I was first starting out but, once I did, he was always very supportive and just great company.”Dickenson commentated on every Summer and Winter Olympic Games between 1992 and 2014.He is one of only five BBC commentators to call Team GB gold medals in both the Summer and Winter Olympics.In 2012 he commentated on Jessica Ennis-Hill’s iconic gold medal in the Olympic heptathlon.Most read in AthleticsDickenson commentated on Jessica Ennis-Hill’s heptathlon gold at London 2012Credit: ReutersHis final commentary for the BBC was Lizzy Yarnold’s gold at the 2014 Winter Olympics in SochiCredit: PA:Press AssociationHis last BBC commentary took place when Lizzy Yarnold won her skeleton gold at Sochi 2014.Before taking up a role in commentary, Dickenson was an Olympic hammerthrower.He represented Great Britain at two successive Olympic games starting in 1976.His best Olympic result was finishing in 14th place that year, where he threw 68.52 metres.Dickenson also commentated on World’s Strongest Man and Superstars, a TV sports competition. More

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    BBC pundit names England’s long-term successor to Harry Kane after Premier League star’s ‘bullying’ performance

    DANNY MURPHY reckons England already have the next Harry Kane waiting in the wings in Liam Delap.England Under-21 international Delap has been the shining light in what has been a difficult season for Ipswich Town.Liam Delap has been Ipswich Town’s main man this seasonCredit: GettyThe 21-year-old has bagged six goals in 12 appearances so far this seasonCredit: REUTERSDanny Murphy reckons Delap is the heir apparent to England legend Harry KaneCredit: REXThe 21-year-old has bagged six goals in 12 matches for the Tractor Boys, who are fighting for their lives in the relegation zone.Delap, who turned in a “bully” esque performance against Manchester United last weekend, has reportedly caught the eye of several teams with his stellar displays.And he’s well and truly impressed Murphy, who believes he’s the heir apparent to Kane’s throne.The BBC pundit said of Delap on Match of the Day 2: “I think he’s got a lot of qualities.READ MORE ON IPSWICH”I’ve seen him a bit quite a lot this season and I’d probably go as far as I say, for me, he the obvious long-term successor to Kane.”I think he’s the best young English striker out there.”I know he’s got a bit to learn and wisdom comes with experience and game time in this league.”But he’s got all the attributes to be a top international player.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDanny Murphy is a massive fan of Liam DelapCredit: BBCDespite being a million miles away from his prime, Murphy believes former Manchester City academy star Delap is already a complete player.The former Liverpool midfielder said: “I just don’t see a weakness for him.Liam Delap won the golden boot for England at the Under-16s Mercedes Benz Aegean Tournament”I mean, he scored enough goals in a struggling side, really.”But if he gets a lot of chances, he’ll score more. He’s just got that lovely balance between physical and technical [ability].”And rarely, you get both.”Delap and his Ipswich team-mates will be back in action on Saturday, travelling to the City Ground to take on Nottingham Forset. More

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    Alex Scott reveals vile trolls threatened to throw ACID in her face after BBC star rumoured to replace national treasure

    ALEX Scott has revealed how vile trolls threatened to throw acid in her face, after she was rumoured to replace a national treasure on a popular TV show.The BBC star and ex England footballer shared how the online threats had stopped her leaving her house.Alex regularly appears on BBC SportCredit: GettyShe is currently dating popstar Jess GlynneCredit: GettyAlex speaking prior to during the Barclays FA Women’s Super League match between Manchester United Women and Manchester City WomenCredit: GettyWriting for The Times about the time she was rumoured to be taking over from Sue Barker as host of A Question of Sport, she said: “I was scared to go out of the house because these trolls were saying they were going to throw acid in my face.”These rumours turned out to be false, with Paddy McGuinness eventually taking over.The 40-year-old added: “There are negatives to fame. I’ve had plenty of racism, abuse and even death threats.”She explained that many people were not happy to see her on major TV channels following her career as a player.Read more Football NewsShe said: “People were saying, ‘She’s only on TV because she’s black, female and younger. She’s just ticking boxes’.However, looking on the bright side, she said she was grateful for those who had kept her positive through the difficult time.She said: “Luckily there are other people who keep me smiling. They’ll come up to me in my local shop and say, ‘Keep going,’ and that’s what I do.”Rumours have been swirling recently that Alex may succeed Gary Lineker as presenter of Match of the Day.Most read in FootballLast year, controversial comments by Gary, comparing government legislation to that seen in 1930s Germany saw the footballing legend taken off air.Alex stood with Gary by refusing to appear on the show in his place.Similar action by other broadcasters saw the show pulled off schedule.Alex Scott has spoken out about her experience with trollsCredit: Getty More

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    Alan Shearer makes cheeky pitch to be new Match of the Day host in first show since Gary Lineker exit confirmed

    ALAN SHEARER made a cheeky pitch to become the new host of Match of the Day.Last night’s edition of the Premier League highlights show was the first since the BBC confirmed Gary Lineker would leave at the end of the season.Alan Shearer made a hilarious pitch to take over as Motd’s new hostCredit: X @BBCMOTDGary Lineker is stepping down at the end of the seasonCredit: X @BBCMOTDThe 63-year-old was in the hotseat yesterday, with Shearer and Ashley Williams the pundits.But Lineker did not introduce the show as usual – instead giving the honours to the Newcastle legend as the pair performed a hilarious joke.Looking down the lens of the camera like a presenter, Shearer quipped: “All good things must come to an end.”Lineker then replied: “Yes, Alan. Lee Carsley’s England reign is over.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It’s back to business in the Premier League. Seven games on the way. Alan Shearer and Ashley Williams join us.”Lineker then whispered under his breath: “Al ain’t getting the job, is he?”Shearer has been a pundit on Match of the Day since 2006 but is not thought to be in the running to take his pal’s job after his 26 years at the helm.Though he would be a popular choice as a study by Ipsos revealed 22 per cent of viewers want him as the new host.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut experienced presenter Mark Chapman is currently the favourite.Alex Scott, Kelly Cates and Kelly Somers are also in the running.Gary Lineker’s best Match of the Day momentsLineker will cover FA Cup and World Cup games with the Beeb until 2026 and he will then officially leave.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. More

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    Watch moment BBC reporter walks out of interview after Logan Paul lookalike arrives instead of YouTuber

    A BBC reporter walked out of an interview after Logan Paul sent a lookalike in his place amid allegations of fraud.Paul faces accusations of misleading followers over crypto investments by promoting coins without disclosing his own financial interests.A BBC reporter walked out of an interview after Logan Paul sent a lookalike in his placeCredit: BBCRodney Petersen is othewise known as Not Logan PaulCredit: BBCRodney Petersen with the real Logan PaulCredit: @LoganPaulAccording to the BBC, the YouTuber promoted crypto investments to his followers without disclosing his own financial interests in them.This could allegedly cause prices in the investments to soar – but Paul has denied any wrongdoing.The BBC also claimed that after Paul posted about crypto coin in 2021, an anonymous crypto wallet – which stores keys for cryptocurrency transactions and allow its owners to manage their funds – connected to his public wallet traded and went on to make a profit of $120,000 (£95,000).A BBC documentary, titled Logan Paul: Bad Influence, saw journalist Matt Shea travel to Puerto Rico to try and interview Paul over the allegations.READ MORE IN SPORTShea flys to Puerto Rico to visit the gym owned by both Logan and his brother Jake Paul – who recently beat Mike Tyson in a controversial boxing bout.The reporter noted a “suspicious” number of cameras in the room before realising why.Because Paul had instead sent Rodney Petersen – otherwise known as his stage name Not Logan Paul – in his place. The social media personality has made a career of imitating the WWE, boxing and social media star.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSShea says: “You look different.”Petersen responded: “I’m locked in, ready for this interview, do you have any questions?”Jake Paul teases major career change from boxing to follow in footsteps of brother Logan despite beating Mike Tyson With a smile, Shea responds: “I have to say, the real Logan Paul looks very different… Is Logan coming?”Shea then walks away after saying: “Let’s just get out of here, I’m not doing this.”Before he leaves, a group arrives in the room holding placards of Shea’s face while seemingly chanting anti-BBC messages.Shea continues via voiceover: “So rather than defend himself against the allegations we’ve been investigating, Logan decided to troll us.”Minutes after leaving the gym, we receive a letter from lawyers on behalf of Logan Paul, warning us against publishing our allegations.’I lost half a million dollars'”But these allegations against him aren’t going away, in fact, they’ve been building since 2021.”Paul currently faces a multi-million-dollar lawsuit over failed crypto project CryptoZoo amid accusations of fraud.The crypto game did not work as intended and resulted in the class-action lawsuit.Paul – who denies defrauding anyone – has pointed the finger at the games makers.But despite denying wrongdoing, he has offered a $2.3million (£1.8m) buyback program aimed at settling the issue.READ MORE SUN STORIESPaul, 28, said: “I’m going to take care of the people who made me look like this was a scam perpetrated by me. “I didn’t make any f***ing money, bro. I lost half a million dollars on this.” More

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    Alex Scott shows off bold new look as BBC star stuns on GQ Men of the Year 2024 red carpet

    YOU can’t beat Alex Scott for ‘sheer’ variety.The BBC presenter’s fashion choices are iconic yet unpredictable.Alex Scott unveiled a fresh style for the bash at London’s Roof GardensCredit: GettyScott and Leah Williamson paraded contrasting versions of chicCredit: PAHere’s what Alex wore 12 months earlier at the 2023 GQ awardsCredit: AlamyLast year at the GQ Men of the Year bash she went braless in a see-through dress.This time only her legs had a sheer covering – stockings to complement a very short velvety outfit, paired with white blouse and shoestring necktie.It meant there was a huge contrast in styles when the 40-year-old BBC football presenter posed alongside Leah Williamson.The Lionesses’ skipper, 27, wore only a black bra beneath an over-sized beige trousersuit for the event at London’s Roof Gardens.READ MORE TOP FOOTBALLYet the Arsenal ace’s outfit was in fact similar to a combo Scott paraded on Instagram over the summer.And the former England defender’s radical new look for the GQ night showed again how she keeps everyone guessing.That’s much like the Beeb are doing now – over their choice to succeed Gary Lineker as Match of the Day host when he bows out at the end of the season after 25 years.Scott, whose partner is singer Jess Glynne, currently sits second favourite, with Gabby Logan third in the bookies’ list.Most read in FootballDid Scott’s spring outfit inspire Williamson’s GQ choice?!Credit: Instagram @alexscott2FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSChelsea winger Cole Palmer, known for his flair and creativity on the pitch, opted instead for a route-one, no-nonsense tuxedo – as he was snapped at a public event with girlfriend Connie Grace for the first time.The England star’s mum Marie was also with him – with Palmer and his two guests all keeping it simple in black.Alex Scott joins girlfriend Jess Glynne as they stun on red carpet at amfAR Gala in Cannes The 22-year-old and Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, 19, were amongst the prime guests, after GQ put them on the cover of their Men of the Year edition for December.Palmer joked with the magazine he always wore “trackies” away from the cameras.Now that’s one item it’s difficult to imagine Scott ever being pictured in at a public do!A glimpse into the life of the ex-Lioness… Scott dazzled in a red leather outfit when presenting SoccerAidCredit: RexShe is a presenter on Football Focus and The One ShowAlex has appeared in magazines including AttitudeCredit: Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards and Attitude magazine – on sale nowThe former right-back won 140 England Women’s capsCredit: Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards and Attitude magazine – on sale nowScott began dating singer Jess Glynne in 2023Credit: RexThe 39-year-old was spotted sharing a kiss with Jess as the couple went public with their romanceCredit: PAShe also dressed up as a scary clown on October 31Credit: Instagram @alexscott2Scott loves to dress up and went to town on Halloween with this incredible outfitCredit: GettyShe attended Wimbledon with partner JessCredit: GettyScott was awarded an MBE in 2017Credit: PA More