More stories

  • in

    ‘Nobody wants to throw the baby out with the bath water’ – Gabby Logan’s bizarre hint about new-look Match of the Day

    GABBY Logan used an old turn of phrase to promise that Match of the Day will NOT radically change from next season.Logan, 51, will team up with Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates to host the BBC’s flagship football show, with Lineker stepping down from the role after 26 years in the hotseat.Gabby Logan has vowed fans that Match of the Day ‘won’t be totally different’ in the futureCredit: AlamyKelly Cates (left), Mark Chapman (centre) and Logan have teamed up to host the BBC’s flagship football show from the start of next season, with Gary Lineker stepping down after 26 yearsCredit: PAGary Lineker will step down from the BBC flagship show in MayCates, Chapman, and Logan are set to split presenting duties for Match of the Day and the Sunday show between the three of them.Lineker’s quitting statement said the Beeb planned to make changes when its new contract for the rights to Premier League football began in August.But, despite the end of an era, Logan has vowed that the content of the show will stay the same.Logan told the ainslie + ainslie Performance People podcast: “We’ve all presented the show before as stand ins.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”But it will feel very exciting at the start of next season. It won’t be totally different.”Nobody wants to throw the baby out with the bath water. It’s a football highlights show, we’ve got the same kind of pundit.”And it’s all about the football.”The idiom is a warning against accidentally throwing away something good when discarding something else.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLogan also revealed the lengths to which she and her co-hosts went to keep the news a secret ahead of January’s official announcement.The former Sky Sports presenter was forced to keep it from her closest pals and family, only husband Kenny being told.’New MOTD host’ Gabby Logan’s live TV interview with Liverpool boss Arne Slot ends awkwardly She explained: “I didn’t even tell my mum. I set up a group chat and called it ‘The Match of the Day three’.”And there were disappearing messages as Chappers [Chapman] was really paranoid about this. The only person I told was Kenny!”Logan was not the only one to keep her new position secret. New colleague Cates also kept it to herself, with even Dad Kenny Dalglish kept in the dark.They will become the show’s first permanent female presenters.Logan said broadcasting was a “completely different landscape” for women working in sport, both in front of and behind the camera, since she started her career.She added: “There are now so many great male and female broadcasters.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But also, so many more females working in sports, not just in front of the camera or the microphone, but also behind the scenes.”The BBC have confirmed that Alan Shearer and Micah Richards will continue as pundits of Match of the Day next season. More

  • in

    Wayne Rooney puffs out cheeks at ‘easy’ question live on BBC ahead of Man Utd’s FA Cup clash vs Fulham

    IT’S the question all Manchester United fans are asking.And when Gary Lineker put it to Wayne Rooney live on BBC before the FA Cup tie with Fulham, the United legend needed a deep intake of breath.Former Man Utd striker Wayne Rooney might have guessed the question was coming but still found it difficultCredit: X formerly Twitter / @BBCMOTDRooney’s face said it all when asked about Ruben AmorimCredit: X formerly Twitter / @BBCMOTDMatch of the Day host Lineker turned to the pundit and said: “Nice easy question for you. What have you made of Ruben Amorim’s tenure so far?”Rooney puffed out his cheeks as he prepared to reply – four months after Amorim was appointed boss and with United now 14th in the Prem.Ex-England skipper Roo raised an eyebrow and smiled as he joked: “Good, easy one!”The ex-Everton striker, who was sacked as Plymouth manager in December, added: “It’s been a difficult start of course with results.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”But I think we’ve seen what he’s trying to do, with players going out on loan, and I think there’s a lot of players who need to leave the football club and I think he’s slowly trying to do that.”Really think his time will start next season.”Rooney also argued: “I think they have to find a way to get through this season. “I think the FA Cup there is still a chance of going and trying to win a trophy.Most read in FA CupRuben Amorim saw United fall behind on Sunday vs FulhamCredit: GettyBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS”But I think there’s big changes at Manchester United on and off the pitch.”I think from next season we’ll start seeing the real change.”Ruben Amorim hits back at Roy Keane after Man Utd legend’s explosive Bruno Fernandes rant Less than an hour later, Rooney was contemplating another awkward situation.Calvin Bassey nodded the only goal of the first half for Fulham in stoppage time at Old Trafford.And yet again it came from woeful United defending.Rooney called that opening period of Sunday’s fifth-round clash a “tough watch”.He claimed there were stars “playing in the wrong positions” – labelling that a key problem for Amorim to solve in the summer transfer window. More

  • in

    Gary Lineker shrugs off Match of the Day exit with ‘spectacular’ podcast profit as BBC host’s company makes millions

    GARY LINEKER won’t be counting the pennies after his departure from Match of the Day following a massive financial windfall.The 64-year-old’s iconic run as presenter of the flagship BBC show will come to an end at the end of the season.Gary Lineker will step down as Match of the Day host at the end of the seasonCredit: PAThe 64-year-old has been preparing for life without MOTD by setting up a podcasting companyCredit: YOUTUBE@THERESTISFOOTBALLLineker’s Goalhanger Podcasts company made a massive profit last yearCredit: BBCLineker, however, will continue with the broadcaster until the summer of 2026.The former Everton and England star has seemingly been preparing for life after the show for the last few years.One post-MOTD preparation has been getting into the world of podcasting, starting up the much-loved The Rest is Football podcast.But he’s also set up his own podcasting company Goalhanger Podcasts, which has had a litany of shows – including The Rest is Politics and The Rest is History – under its umbrella.READ MORE ON GARY LINEKERAnd business is booming for Goalhanger, which raked in a stunning profit last year.Account records filed at Companies House have shown Goalhanger’s earnings for 2024 were a whopping £2.3million.That’s a whopping £1.4m increase from the £590,000 they pocketed in 2023.Goalhanger’s overall financial reserves also grew from £560,000 to £2.7m.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSGary Lineker began presenting Match of the Day back in 1999Credit: NEWS GROUP NEWSPAPERS LTDFootie finance expert Kieran McGuire told The Times: “These figures are spectacular.”Gary Lineker’s eye for a smart business opportunity is as keen as when he was playing football for England and scoring goals.Gary Lineker ‘turns into Barry White’ as BBC viewers left stunned by sound of MOTD host’s voice”This raft of podcasts run by Goalhanger are now among the most popular in the country and all the parties involved have benefited significantly as a result of that.”A Goalhanger spokesman said: “We’re pleased with the continued growth of Goalhanger and the success of our shows.”And we look forward to seeing our network continue to expand.”Lineker’s departure from Match of Day, which was exclusively revealed by The Sun late last year, will come at the end of the 2024/25 season.His exit from the Beeb will take place after the 2026 World Cup final in New York.Kelly Cates, Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman will replace the veteran presenter at the MOTD helm. More

  • in

    ‘Endangered his life’ – Crystal Palace owner gives Mateta injury update live on BBC and slams ‘reckless’ Millwall star

    STEVE PARISH has claimed Liam Roberts ENDANGERED Jean-Philippe Mateta’s life with his horror challenge.In-form Crystal Palace hitman Mateta was rushed to the hospital after being on the receiving end of a wild tackle from the Millwall keeper in the first half of the tasty FA Cup fifth-round tie.Liam Roberts crashed into Jean-Philippe Mateta in Millwall’s FA Cup clash with Crystal PalaceCredit: REXThe Millwall stopper got the ball, but his left boot followed through and felled MatetaCredit: GETTYThe tackle drew blood and resulted in Mateta being transported to the hospitalCredit: GettyPalace owner Steve Parish went on an extraordinary mid-match rant about the challengeCredit: BBCRoberts booted the striker in the head as he recklessly cleared the ball with a kung-fu kick of a challenge, which eventually earned him a red card.Parish couldn’t quite believe his eyes and voiced his frustrations during a mid-match interview with the BBC.He said: “So far what we know is he’s got a bad gash behind his ear and a head injury. He’s at the hospital so we hope for the best.”There’s a lot of emotion in football but we need to talk about that challenge. READ MORE ON MATETA”In all the time I’ve watched football, I’ve never seen a challenge like it.”I looked to see how old the keeper is, he’s 30 years old.”That is the most reckless challenge on a football pitch I think I’ve ever seen.”And he needs to have a long, hard look at himself that lad.Most read in FootballSteve Parish mimicked Liam Roberts’ tackle in the standsCredit: BBC”Because he’s endangering a fellow professional, maybe even his life, with a challenge like that.”Parish couldn’t quite believe that referee Michael Oliver needed to review the incident before giving Roberts his marching orders.Crystal Palace star Mateta stretchered off with horror injury after shock kung-fu kick from Milwall keeper who sees redHe continued: “It’s very difficult for me to talk about the rest of the game because we’re worried about JP in hospital. It’s just a terrible, terrible challenge.”That goalkeeper hasn’t shown a duty of care to another professional.”Someone mentioned there was one in the 1982 World Cup like it.”But it’s a dreadful challenge and why the referee needs to go the screen, I’ve no idea.”Forget about him being a football player, he is a human being. That is not a normal challenge. Jean-Philippe Mateta was rushed to the hospital after being treated on the pitchCredit: REX”If you’re kicking someone in the head with the full force, God knows what damage has been done to him.”Palace boss Oliver Glasner was left sickened by the injury, saying: “I didn’t want to see it after the game. “I didn’t want to watch the injury. I watched it because I knew I had to talk about it. “It was a very serious foul play. It’s tough to see. I don’t want to watch it again. “Imagine it could have ended his career. He didn’t want to make such a challenge but his decision to make the challenge was wrong.Oliver Glasner was sickened by the injury to Jean-Philippe MatetaCredit: GETTY”I believe in fair play and all sportsmen don’t want to injure another. His decision with his foot with this intensity was wrong.Sections of the travelling Millwall support shockingly mocked the injury to Mateta by chanting, “Let him die.”Palace raced into a 2-0 lead in seven first-half minutes thanks to an own goal from Japhet Tanganga and a strike from Daniel Munoz. READ MORE SUN STORIESTen-man Millwall, however, reduced the arrears in first-half stoppage time through Wes Harding.The Lions battled valiantly but had their hopes of a quarter-final hopes dashed by a sumptuous header from substitute Eddie Nketiah. More

  • in

    BBC commentator condemns Millwall fans’ vile chants as stricken Mateta is stretchered off and given oxygen

    BBC commentator Jonathan Pearce condemned Milwall fans’ vile chant aimed at Jean-Philippe Mateta. Mateta was stretchered off the pitch needing oxygen after colliding with keeper Liam Roberts – who was sent off. Jean-Philippe Mateta was stretchered off after a collision with keeper Liam RobertsCredit: ReutersRoberts’ boot caught MatetaCredit: GettyThe keeper was sent off as a resultCredit: ReutersTravelling fans at Selhurt Park could be heard singing “Let Him Die” -which Pearce condemned on air. He said: “Millwall fans are not endearing themselves to anyone with their chant about Mateta. The club could be revisited about that.”According to the Daily Mail, the FA are to investigate “Chelsea rent boys” chants aimed at Ben Chilwell – on loan to Palace from the Blues. But “let him die” aimed at Mateta will not as “does not breach regulations.” READ MORE IN football Just six minutes were on the clock in the FA Cup fifth-round clash when the Palace’s Will Hughes played a superb long pass up the field.Mateta and Millwall centre-back Jake Cooper tussled for the bouncing ball – but Lions stopper Roberts came rushing out of his box.The 30-year-old did appear to win a part of the ball but he then clattered into Mateta’s head with his stray boot.Referee Michael Oliver initially allowed play to continue with Palace still on the attack but once the shot was headed away, he stopped the game.Most read in FootballAnd after initially allowing Roberts to stay on the field, Oliver was sent to the pitchside VAR monitor to watch a replay.He decided to overturn his decision and announced the sending off over the in-stadium tannoy before brandishing the red card.How Man Utd could clinch a win in Fulham FA Cup clash – Expert’s best bets | Weekend WagerMateta stayed down for several minutes as he was treated by the medics on the pitch.After nearly ten minutes on the ground, he was carried off on a stretcher to the corner of the ground where an ambulance was waiting to take him to hospital.The French striker received oxygen as he was taken away.Eddie Nketiah came on in his place in a concussion substitute – meaning Palace still had their five remaining subs.Millwall also were forced into a tactical change as Lions No1 Lukas Jensen came on between the sticks – with Luke Cundle sacrificed by Alex Neil.A Japhet Tanganga own goal and Daniel Munoz strike gave Palace the lead before Wes Harding pulled one back in the 14TH MINUTE of added time.Eddie Nketiah made it 3-1 meanwhile Eagles owner Steve Parish slammed Milwall keeper Roberts for “endangering” Mateta’s life. Palace manager Oliver Glasner was asked about Mateta’s sickening injury after the game. Honestly, I didn’t want to see it, I just watched it and it is terrible. I’m sure the goalkeeper didn’t want to injure JP in this situation, no player wants this. Oliver Glasner Glasner said: “He is conscious and he is in hospital. His ear looks terrible. It’s a very serious injury so we hope all the best for him. “We are not really happy, we can’t be really happy. Of course, it’s a great win and into the quarter-finals but when you lose a player, especially with a foul like this, you have two different feelings in your stomach.”Honestly, I didn’t want to see it, I just watched it and it is terrible. I’m sure the goalkeeper didn’t want to injure JP in this situation, no player wants this. “But f you got to the ball with this with this intensity, with the foot at that height, you can’t do it because it’s so dangerous and we all have responsibilities for our health. I don’t want to blame him but it is a terrible foul.””I didn’t see it like it was in the game, it was so quick, I could see the keeper had a lot of intensity, but he touched the ball first. But I could see it now in slow motion and it’s worse.”Millwall boss Alex Neil said: “I think the ball went in behind, Liam Roberts has come out which he has done in many games he’s played. “He’s misjudged it and caught the lad. He has mistimed it, he got sent off which at that stage made the game doubly difficult for us.”I don’t think it is meant. I don’t think there is any intent, why would there be intent? We don’t want the lad to be injured. READ MORE SUN STORIES”We wish him well and hope he is back on the pitch soon. It was a mistiming, he was sent off, he is disappointed and will hope Mateta is fine, which we all do.”You are playing Premier League opposition on their own ground so it is a difficult task with 11 men. The nature of the goals probably disappoint me the most.” More

  • in

    Premier League legend in line to join Match of the Day after starring as BBC pundit

    A PREMIER LEAGUE legend is reportedly in line for a job at Match of the Day.The BBC football highlights show is undergoing major changes, with Gary Lineker leaving at the end of the season.Gary Lineker is leaving the iconic show at the end of the seasonCredit: PAKelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will be the new hosts of MOTDCredit: PAWayne Rooney could land a job on Match of the DayCredit: RexRooney appeared on Amazon Prime earlier this yearCredit: ReutersThe former Barcelona and Everton striker is stepping down as the host of the show after 26 years.He is being replaced by fan-favourite presenters Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan.There could also be another addition to the pundits that appear on the show with Wayne Rooney said to in line for a role.Heat World has claimed that there is “talk” of the Manchester United legend joining the iconic programme.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt is also suggested that because the show is filmed in the Dock10 studios at MediaCityUK in Salford it would be easy for the retired striker to get to.It means that Rooney would not have to “travel too far” to get to the job.He has already made his BBC debut as he worked with the broadcaster during Euro 2024.Rooney also impressed as a pundit during his recent appearance for Amazon Prime.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe appeared in the coverage of the Champions League clash between Manchester City and Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium.Rooney was in good spirits as it took just THREE seconds for him to make a dig at his former rivals.Wayne Rooney slams ‘strange’ decision by Man City to let Kyle Walker join AC Milan on loan after Real Madrid horror showRooney worked on the BBC for Euro 2024Credit: BBCHe was sacked by Plymouth in DecemberCredit: PAHe also joked about himself with the rain potentially ruining his hair.The Premier League icon has been out of full-time work since December.Plymouth Argyle axed Rooney after he won just five of his 25 games at the club.The report has also suggested that he could be returning to football management in the EFL.It claims that he could become the new manager at League Two outfit Salford City if Karl Robinson is sacked.The Ammies are currently seven points adrift of the play-off places.It is thought that the club could make a change in the dugout if they fail to be promoted to League One.Rooney would be working with some familiar faces if he was hired at Salford City.Man United’s legendary Class of 92 Gary Neville, Phil Neville, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt first took over Salford FC in 2014.David Beckham became a shareholder of the club in 2019.Rooney has also admitted that he would even be interested in working as an assistant manager.During an appearance on the Stick to Football podcast, he said: “I’d have no problem dropping into an Under-21 team or going in as a coach.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’m still young enough to learn and develop. Just having a good group of players who were at a [good] level.”He has been keeping his coaching up as he recently worked for Football Escapes at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai.Rooney’s managerial careerHere is a look at Wayne Rooney’s career in the dugout so far.Derby County, Nov 2020 to Jun 2022Games – 84Wins – 25Draws – 21Losses – 38DC United, Jul 2022 to Oct 2023Games – 53Wins – 14Draws – 13Losses – 26Birmingham City, Oct 2023 to Jan2024Games – 15Wins – 2Draws – 4Losses – 9Plymouth Argyle, May 2024 to Dec 2024Games – 25Wins – 5Draws – 6Losses – 14Average points per game – 1.03 More

  • in

    Alex Scott stuns in bold outfit at London Fashion Week as BBC pundit wears unusual spiky jacket

    ALEX SCOTT has stunned in a bold outfit at the London Fashion Week.The BBC pundit has been enjoying the event and has already been in attendance with partner Jess Glynne.Alex Scott wore an unusual jacket at London Fashion WeekCredit: SplashThe jacket is made by designer Chet LoCredit: GettyIt features a unique spiky hoodCredit: SplashShe was snapped alongside athlete Imani-Lara LansiquotCredit: GettyScott, 40, regularly shows off some incredible outfits when attending glitzy events.But this time, she opted for a more unusual look as she wore a spiky hooded jacket.It is a creation by Asian-American designer Chet Lo and was featured at London Fashion Week last year.The jacket is a part of the designer’s “Terracotta” collection and features the brand’s iconic spikes.READ MORE ON SPORTThe former Lioness paired the item with a grey skirt, tights and black heels.Scott was seen beaming as she arrived for the fashion show.She was also joined by British athlete Imani-Lara Lansiquot for the runway.Lansiquot, 27, mainly competes in the 100m but claimed silver in the 4x100m at the Paris Olympics last year.Most read in FootballShe stunned in a glimmering full-length dress.Scott did post on social media to hail designer LABRUM who uses trends to tell West African narratives.Alex Scott given a fright by BBC presenter’s comment after picking last ball of FA Cup draw Scott also appeared at an earlier LFW eventCredit: GettyShe was joined by partner Jess GlynneCredit: GettyShe wrote: “Yess, LABRUM London absolutely smashed it once again.”Scott saw rapper Wretch 32 and musician-writer Akala perform in her previous appearance.She and Glynne looked loved-up as they were snapped in trendy long coats.They have been dating since 2023 and recently moved in with each other.Scott told The Times: “I wake up next to my partner, Jess, who has become the same person as me over the past year and a half.”She can see what going to the gym does for me mentally, so she’ll do the same.”I love seeing [Jess] thrive, I didn’t want to be photographed with Rihanna because I wanted the spotlight to be on Jess.”Check out Alex Scott’s most dazzling and daring outfits…Alex looked incredible as she wore a see-through dress and no bra to the GQ AwardsCredit: AlamyScott, who works primarily as a pundit for the BBC, dazzled in a red leather outfit when presenting SoccerAidCredit: RexShe is a presenter on Football Focus and The One ShowAlex made 148 appearances for Arsenal Women – but since quitting playing 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: PAScott loves to dress up and went to town on Halloween with this incredible outfitCredit: GettyShe also dressed up as a scary clown on October 31Credit: Instagram @alexscott2Scott was awarded an MBE in 2017Credit: PAShe attended Wimbledon with partner JessCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Alex Scott and Jess Glynne look loved up as BBC presenter and singer partner attend London Fashion Week show

    ALEX SCOTT and Jess Glynne looked loved up as they attended a London Fashion Week show.The couple have been dating since 2023 and have regularly attended glitzy events together.Qlex Scott and Jess Glynne attended a London Fashion Week event togetherCredit: GettyScott wore a long coat with some chunky black bootsCredit: GettyThe couple looked loved-up at the showCredit: GettyThey were pictured with singer Ella EyreCredit: GettyThey were snapped outside holding hands as Jess admired Scott.Inside the venue, they were all smiles as they were pictures with each other again.Former Lioness and pundit Scott, 40, opted for a bold look as she wore an oversized coat over a crop top with some chunky black boots.Singer Jess wore an equally bold black coat with orange patterned panelling that had rope buttons and flared trousers.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe couple were also pictured with English singer-songwriter Ella Eyre.The event they attended was the LABRUM London presentation at Abbey Road Studios.They saw performances from rapper Wretch 32 as well as rapper and writer Akala.Scott recently gave an insight into her relationship with Jess, having moved in with each other.Most read in FootballShe told The Times: “I wake up next to my partner, Jess, who has become the same person as me over the past year and a half.”She can see what going to the gym does for me mentally, so she’ll do the same.Alex Scott and Jess Glynne enjoy date night at the Emirates for Arsenal’s win over Man UtdThey have been dating since 2023Credit: Getty”I love seeing [Jess] thrive, I didn’t want to be photographed with Rihanna because I wanted the spotlight to be on Jess.”Back in January, Scott shared pictures of them enjoying a Costa Rican holiday.Ex-Arsenal defender Scott’s 2.1million Instagram followers were awestruck by how “perfect” it all looked 5,415 miles away from London.The month prior, they had a date night at the Emirates to watch Arsenal take on Manchester United.And it was a joyous watch for the former Gunner as they ran out 2-0 winners over the Red Devils.Check out Alex Scott’s most dazzling and daring outfits…Alex looked incredible as she wore a see-through dress and no bra to the GQ AwardsCredit: AlamyScott, who works primarily as a pundit for the BBC, dazzled in a red leather outfit when presenting SoccerAidCredit: RexShe is a presenter on Football Focus and The One ShowAlex made 148 appearances for Arsenal Women – but since quitting playing 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: PAScott loves to dress up and went to town on Halloween with this incredible outfitCredit: GettyShe also dressed up as a scary clown on October 31Credit: Instagram @alexscott2Scott was awarded an MBE in 2017Credit: PAShe attended Wimbledon with partner JessCredit: Getty More