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      Gary Lineker ‘wept’ over Match of the Day storm as Ian Wright & Alan Shearer walk out in ‘solidarity’

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      GARY Lineker “wept” when he found out his pals had publicly backed him after the BBC took him off air.It comes as Match of the Day hosts staged a mutiny tonight following the decision to axe Lineker from the show.
      It comes as Match of the Day hosts staged a mutiny following the decision to axe Lineker from the show
      Ian Wright and Alan Shearer walked out in “solidarity” with Lineker, 62, who had compared the Government’s language around its small boats crackdown to that of 1930s Germany.
      Gary was reportedly left in tears when told how his mates had publicly backed him. 
      A source said: “This has been a tumultuous 24 hours. Gary is in shock and had no idea this was coming. He wanted to go on air, make no bones about it, this was not his decision.
      “Privately, everyone at the Beeb is in meltdown too. They genuinely don’t know how they will get a show out because no one wants to touch it.
      read more in Football
      “Everyone in the industry is appalled at how Gary has been hung out to dry, and the general BBC inconsistency. 
      Gary wept when he found out his mates had all publicly backed him.
      “The support has been overwhelming which, essentially, is a massive pie in the face for the BBC. 
      “Gary wasn’t willing to pretend to support something he vehemently doesn’t agree with.
      “He doesn’t need the cash and, frankly, it seems hard to imagine a way back for either party from here.”
      Most read in Football
      The BBC was left scrambling to find a panel for the show, as other stars ruled themselves out.
      It comes as the corporation claimed its £1.3million-a-year star had agreed to step back from presenting tonight’s flagship highlights show.
      He was ordered to issue a “humiliating apology” by execs or face being “rested” from the show. 
      The ex-striker had compared language around the Government’s small boats crackdown to that used by 1930s Germany.
      The BBC initially said Lineker would be spoken to, then appeared to take no action against him. 
      That triggered a backlash from Tory MPs furious about a perceived breach of BBC impartiality rules.
      Yesterday afternoon, the BBC issued its botched statement stating Lineker had stepped back from presenting MoTD.
      Pal Wright then tweeted that he will step away, saying: “Everybody knows what Match of the Day means to me, but I’ve told the BBC I won’t be doing it tomorrow. Solidarity.” 
      Shearer soon followed, saying: “I have informed the BBC I wont be appearing on MoTD.”
      And Football Focus host Alex Scott appeared to rule herself out, posting a meme which read “Nah, not me”.
      Others to join the mutiny include Mark Chapman and Jermaine Jenas.
      Footie pundit Micah Richards also backed Ian Wright and Alan Shearer after the Match of the Day hosts pulled out in “solidarity” with Gary Lineker.
      Piers Morgan said of the Beeb last night: “This is a ridiculous decision. If the BBC really believes its presenters shouldn’t have political opinions then I look forward to them suspending David Attenborough and Alan Sugar and everyone else who has presented BBC shows but makes public their opinions.”
      Broadcasters Jeff Stelling and Laura Woods also backed Lineker. 
      Earlier the BBC said in its statement: “We have said we consider his recent social media activity to be a breach of our guidelines. The BBC has decided that he will step back from presenting MoTD until we’ve got an agreed and clear position on his use of social media.
      “We have never said that Gary should be an opinion-free zone, or that he can’t have a view on issues that matter to him, but we have said that he should keep well away from taking sides on political issues or political controversies.”
      A TV insider added: “This is typical of the BBC being unable to handle a crisis which involves itself — they almost implode in confusion over what to do. They haven’t disciplined him, and have been briefing the media saying he won’t step down, but have now decided to take him off air to review their own policies. It’s all a bit bewildering.
      “No wonder nobody knows what they can and can’t say.”
      Lineker appeared to have ridden out the row until yesterday, and had tweeted: “Well, it’s been an interesting couple of days. Happy this ridiculously out of proportion story seems to be abating and very much looking forward to presenting Match of the Day on Saturday.”

      PM Rishi Sunak said he hoped critics such as Lineker would eventually see why they were wrong about his immigration plan.
      Read More on The Sun
       Ex-Culture Secretary John Whittingdale said: “Gary is of course entitled to hold his views. 
      “The problem is he is the highest-paid person working for the BBC and is closely associated with the BBC. I’m afraid that those things are not compatible.” 
      Gary Lineker ‘wept’ when he found out his pals had publicly backed him as the BBC took him off airCredit: Alamy More

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      BBC announce Match of the Day WILL go ahead with NO presenters after Gary Lineker taken off air & hosts spark mutiny

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      MATCH of the Day will go ahead on Saturday – but WITHOUT presenters, pundits or commentators.The BBC said the exodus of pundits following Gary Lineker’s suspension means tonight’s episode will show only football replay.
      The BBC told The Sun the exodus of pundits following Gary Linker’s suspension means they will show only football replayCredit: PA
      Co-host Ian Wright became the first pundit to boycott Match of the Day in solidarity with Gary LinekerCredit: PA
      And there will be no studio analysis by pundits for viewers.
      A BBC spokesperson said: “Some of our pundits have said that they don’t wish to appear on the programme while we seek to resolve the situation with Gary.
      “We understand their position and we have decided that the programme will focus on match action without studio presentation or punditry.”
      The show’s commentary team are also standing down. Commentators usually heard on football broadcasts outside the UK are expected to be shipped in.
      Read More on this story
      Mr Lineker sparked a free speech row when he compared the Governments plans to ban migrants arriving on small boats from settling in Britain with “1930’s Germany”.
      The BBC said Mr Lineker’s criticism of the Government’s Illegal Migration Bill on Twitter was a “breach of our guidelines”.
      The pundit was then forced to step back from presenting duties on the flagship football show – that he’s presented since 1999 – until a “clear position” on his social media use is agreed.
      But his suspension sparked chaos as scores of co-hosts of Match of the Day launched a mutiny.
      Most read in Football
      Ian Wright, Alan Shearer, Jermaine Jenas, Alex Scott, Mark Chapman and Micah Richards all refused to fill in amid the chaos.
      The row was triggered when Mr Lineker responded to a video on Twitter of Home Secretary Suella Braverman as she presented the Government’s small boats plan.
      The legislation will see migrants swiftly detained and removed to either their country of origin or a safe third state within 28 days.
      Sharing the clip, Mr Lineker said: “Good heavens, this is beyond awful.”
      Responding to another user who described him as “out of order”, he added: “We take far fewer refugees than other major European countries.
      “This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s, and I’m out of order?”
      In a statement earlier, the BBC outlined they had undergone “extensive discussions” with the ex-England star, 62, following the furore.
      While the Beeb praised his sports coverage as “second to none” they said he should “keep well away from taking sides” on party political topics.
      The full statement read: “The BBC has been in extensive discussions with Gary and his team in recent days.
      “We have said that we consider his recent social media activity to be a breach of our guidelines.
      “The BBC has decided that he will step back from presenting Match of the Day until we’ve got an agreed and clear position on his use of social media.
      “When it comes to leading our football and sports coverage, Gary is second to none.
      “We have never said that Gary should be an opinion free zone, or that he can’t have a view on issues that matter to him, but we have said that he should keep well away from taking sides on party political issues or political controversies.”

      Following the BBC’s suspension of Mr Lineker, Match of the Day co-host Wright said he will boycott Saturday’s episode in “solidarity”.
      He tweeted on Friday: “Everybody knows what Match of the Day means to me, but I’ve told the BBC I won’t be doing it tomorrow. Solidarity.”
      And Shearer shortly followed suit, tweeting: “I have informed the BBC that I won’t be appearing on MOTD tomorrow night.”
      Scott later declared herself out of the race with a cryptic tweet of US politician Bernie Sanders saying: “Nah… not for me.”
      And pundit Micah Richards backed the boycotters – saying he’d do the same if he was asked to host.
      Jemaine Jenas also ruled himself out of presenting duties.
      Mark Chapman – who presents Match of the Day 2 on Sunday – also said he would not stand in.
      In a tweet, Steve Wilson, one of the flagship footie show’s commentators, said he and his colleagues will also not be heard in Saturday’s episode.
      He explained on Friday night: “As commentators on MoTD, we have decided to step down from tomorrow night’s broadcast.
      “We are comforted that football fans who want to watch their teams should still be able to do so, as management can use World Feed commentary if they wish.”
      The move means the dulcet tones of commentators Conor McNamara, Simon Brotherton and Robyn Cowen will fall silent tonight.
      Read More on The Sun
      They will likely be covered by commentary usually provided for football broadcasts outside the UK.
      Alan Shearer has joined Ian Wright in boycotting Match of the Day tonightCredit: Alamy
      And Alex Scott shared a meme saying: ‘Nah… not for me.’Credit: Getty
      Micah Richard’s says he backed the pundits in their decisionCredit: Alamy
      Mark Chapman also ruled himself outCredit: PA More

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      Match of the Day plunged into meltdown as hosts stage mutiny after BBC pull Gary Lineker off air over Nazi tweet row

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      MATCH of the Day hosts staged a mutiny tonight after the BBC yanked Gary Lineker off air over the Nazi tweet row — plunging the flagship show into chaos.Ian Wright and Alan Shearer walked out in “solidarity” with Lineker, 62, who had compared the Government’s language around its small boats crackdown to that of 1930s Germany.
      Pals said Lineker had been blindsided by the statement and was being benched against his willCredit: Getty
      Ian Wright and Alan Shearer have walked out in ‘solidarity’ with LinekerCredit: BBC
      The walkout has left Match of the Day 2 presenter Mark Chapman as the favourite to step inCredit: BBC
      The BBC was left scrambling to find a panel for the show, as other stars ruled themselves out.
      Gary wept when told how his mates had publicly backed him. 
      On a day of chaos, the corporation claimed its £1.3million-a-year star had agreed to step back from presenting tonight’s flagship highlights show.
      But friends said Lineker had been blindsided by the statement and was being benched against his will. 
      READ MORE ON MOTD MUTINY
      It left Match of the Day 2 presenter Mark Chapman as favourite to step in.
      The Beeb could not say when ex-England ace Lineker will return.
      Tonight it appeared there was no way back for the star at the BBC.
      He was ordered to issue a “humiliating apology” by execs or face being “rested” from the show. 
      Most read in Football
      A source said: “This has been a tumultuous 24 hours. Gary is in shock and had no idea this was coming. He wanted to go on air, make no bones about it, this was not his decision.
      “Privately, everyone at the Beeb is in meltdown too. They genuinely don’t know how they will get a show out because no one wants to touch it.
      “Everyone in the industry is appalled at how Gary has been hung out to dry, and the general BBC inconsistency. 
      “Gary wept when he found out his mates had all publicly backed him. 
      “The support has been overwhelming which, essentially, is a massive pie in the face for the BBC. 
      “Gary wasn’t willing to pretend to support something he vehemently doesn’t agree with.
      “He doesn’t need the cash and, frankly, it seems hard to imagine a way back for either party from here.”
      The ex-striker had compared language around the Government’s small boats crackdown to that used by Nazi Germany in the 1930s.
      The BBC initially said Lineker would be spoken to, then appeared to take no action against him. 
      That triggered a backlash from Tory MPs furious about a perceived breach of BBC impartiality rules.
      Jermaine Jenas confirmed he would not stand inCredit: PA
      Micah Richards has also ruled himself out of stepping in to cover LinekerCredit: Getty
      Alex Scott is another high-profile presenter showing solidarity with LinekerCredit: Getty
      Yesterday afternoon, the BBC issued its botched statement stating Lineker had stepped back from presenting MoTD.
      Pal Wright then tweeted that he will step away, saying: “Everybody knows what Match of the Day means to me, but I’ve told the BBC I won’t be doing it tomorrow. Solidarity.” 
      Shearer soon followed, saying: “I have informed the BBC I wont be appearing on MoTD.”
      And Football Focus host Alex Scott appeared to rule herself out, posting a meme which read “Nah, not me”.
      Piers Morgan said of the Beeb last night: “This is a ridiculous decision. If the BBC really believes its presenters shouldn’t have political opinions then I look forward to them suspending David Attenborough and Alan Sugar and everyone else who has presented BBC shows but makes public their opinions.”
      Broadcasters Jeff Stelling and Laura Woods also backed Lineker. 
      Earlier the BBC said in its statement: “We have said we consider his recent social media activity to be a breach of our guidelines. The BBC has decided that he will step back from presenting MoTD until we’ve got an agreed and clear position on his use of social media.
      “We have never said that Gary should be an opinion-free zone, or that he can’t have a view on issues that matter to him, but we have said that he should keep well away from taking sides on political issues or political controversies.”
      A TV insider added: “This is typical of the BBC being unable to handle a crisis which involves itself — they almost implode in confusion over what to do. They haven’t disciplined him, and have been briefing the media saying he won’t step down, but have now decided to take him off air to review their own policies. It’s all a bit bewildering.
      Linker’s co-hosts tweet their support after the BBC announces he will be stepping back from the show
      “No wonder nobody knows what they can and can’t say.”
      Lineker appeared to have ridden out the row until yesterday, and had tweeted: “Well, it’s been an interesting couple of days. Happy this ridiculously out of proportion story seems to be abating and very much looking forward to presenting Match of the Day on Saturday.”
      PM Rishi Sunak said he hoped critics such as Lineker would eventually see why they were wrong about his immigration plan.
       Ex-Culture Secretary John Whittingdale said: “Gary is of course entitled to hold his views. 
      Read More on The Sun
      “The problem is he is the highest-paid person working for the BBC and is closely associated with the BBC. I’m afraid that those things are not compatible.”  More

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      Mark Chapman ‘rules himself out as Match of the Day host’ after Alex Scott says she WON’T take over from Gary Lineker

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      MARK Chapman has reportedly ruled himself out as the new Match of the Day host after fellow pundits pulled out in “solidarity” with Gary Lineker.The BBC said Mr Lineker’s criticism of the Government’s Illegal Migration Bill on Twitter was a “breach of our guidelines”.
      Mark Chapman has reportedly ruled himself out as the new Match of the Day host
      Gary Lineker will step back from presenting duties on Match of the Day until a ‘clear position’ on his social media use is agreedCredit: Splash
      The pundit will now step back from presenting duties on the flagship football show – that he’s presented since 1999 – until a “clear position” on his social media use is agreed.
      Now, football pundit Mark Chapman is thought to have ruled himself out as host of tonight’s show.
      The Daily Mail’s Chief Sports Reporter Matt Hughes said in a tweet: “BBC desperately scrambling to secure a new presenter for Match of the Day, with Alex Scott and Mark Chapman both ruling themselves out following withdrawal of Alan Shearer and Ian Wright as pundits.”
      Chapman joined Alan Shearer, Ian Wright, Jermaine Jenas, Micah Richards and Alex Scott in boycotting Saturday’s episode.
      read more in Football
      Arsenal legend Wright tweeted: “Everybody knows what Match of the Day means to me, but I’ve told the BBC I won’t be doing it tomorrow. Solidarity.”
      Mr Shearer, 52, later followed suit, saying: “I have informed the BBC that I won’t be appearing on MOTD tomorrow night.”
      And pundit Alex Scott says she won’t step in to host Match of the Day in place of Gary Lineker after his suspension from the show.
      In a cryptic tweet the ex-Lioness shared a meme of US politician Bernie Sanders saying: “Nah… not for me.”
      Most read in Football
      Footie pundit Micah Richards also backed the boycott.
      It is unclear who will present the show in place of the pundits.
      Mr Lineker sparked a free speech row when he compared the Governments plans to ban migrants arriving on small boats from settling in Britain with “1930’s Germany”.
      It came as he responded to a video on Twitter of Home Secretary Suella Braverman as she presented the Government’s plan.
      The legislation will see migrants swiftly detained and removed to either their country of origin or a safe third state within 28 days.
      Sharing the clip, Mr Lineker said: “Good heavens, this is beyond awful.”
      Responding to another user who described him as “out of order”, he added: “We take far fewer refugees than other major European countries.
      “This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s, and I’m out of order?”
      In a statement earlier, the BBC outlined they had undergone “extensive discussions” with the ex-England star, 62, following the furore.
      While the beeb praised his sports coverage as “second to none” they said he should “keep well away from taking sides” on party political topics.

      The full statement read: “The BBC has been in extensive discussions with Gary and his team in recent days.
      “We have said that we consider his recent social media activity to be a breach of our guidelines.
      “The BBC has decided that he will step back from presenting Match of the Day until we’ve got an agreed and clear position on his use of social media.
      “When it comes to leading our football and sports coverage, Gary is second to none.
      “We have never said that Gary should be an opinion free zone, or that he can’t have a view on issues that matter to him, but we have said that he should keep well away from taking sides on party political issues or political controversies.”
      Sun columnist Piers Morgan reacted in fury at the “ridiculous” decision to suspend his pal Mr Lineker – accusing the BBC of being “pathetically spineless”.
      The TalkTV’s host fumed: “This is a ridiculous decision and if the BBC really believes its presenters shouldn’t have political opinions then I look forward to them suspending David Attenborough…
      “And Alan Sugar and everyone else who has presented BBC shows but makes public their opinions.”
      Meanwhile, Alastair Campbell – who hosts a podcast run by Mr Lineker’s media firm Goalhanger Podcasts – told Sky News he fears “we’ve seen him on Match of the Day for the last time”
      Read More on The Sun
      Alan Shearer has joined Ian Wright in boycotting Match of the Day tonightCredit: Alamy More

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      Who could replace Gary Lineker as host of Match of the Day from The One Show regular to James Corden

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      THESE are some of the potential candidates that could eventually host Match of the Day after the BBC decided to pull Gary Lineker off air.The former England striker hit the headlines after he compared new immigration legislation to 1930s Germany.
      The BBC have pulled Gary Lineker off the airCredit: Getty
      That has led to people speculating as to who will step in as hostCredit: BBC
      In a major U-turn, the broadcaster announced Lineker would be suspended from his presenting duties after previously saying he would face no disciplinary action.
      They added that the suspension will remain in place until an agreement is reached on his social media use – which could potentially mean it is for the long-term.
      Attention quickly turned to who could replace him in the MOTD hot-seat.
      However, for the time being there will be NO HOST.
      READ MORE ON GARY LINEKER
      The BBC made that decision after numerous contenders ruled themselves out of the running in a show of solidarity with Lineker.
      Here, we take a look at those who could eventually end up replacing Lineker…
      JAMES CORDEN
      The Brit currently hosts the hit Late Late Show in America and is also set to stay Stateside to film his CBS chat show until next year before leaving the post following eight years in the job.
      Corden has previously presented the sports-based panel show A League of Their Own and is no stranger to football with the star being a huge West Ham supporter.
      Most read in Football
      He was tipped as a contender to replace Lineker last year, with Lineker even tweeting the ‘eyes’ emoji in response to the story.
      James Corden would be a left-field choiceCredit: Getty
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      ALEX SCOTT
      The former Lionesses star, 38, began her media career while still playing football, appearing on programmes such as Soccer AM and also had other minor roles at BBC Sport, BT Sport, and Sky Sports.
      She started co-presenting on Match of the Day Kickabout after retirement and then made history as a pundit at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first female football pundit at a World Cup for the BBC.
      In August 2019, Scott was announced as the new co-host of Sky Sports’ Goals on Sunday alongside Chris Kamara and has been a regular presenter on the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards while she is also a frequent guest presenter on The One Show.
      However, she says she won’t step in to host Match of the Day in place of Lineker after his suspension from the show.
      In a cryptic tweet she shared a meme of US politician Bernie Sanders saying: “Nah… not for me.”
      JERMAINE JENAS
      The 40-year-old former Premier League star regularly works as a pundit and commentator for BBC and BT Sport.
      Jenas began co-presenting The One Show on BBC One with Alex Jones and became one of its permanent hosts the following year.
      Last year he also performed the role of “Draw Conductor” for the 2022 FIFA World Cup draw.
      But Jenas also tweeted on Friday: “Been on air with the one show. I wasn’t down to be doing match of the day tomorrow, but if I was I would of said no and stood with my fellow pundits and @GaryLineker.”
      Jermaine Jenas has plenty of TV hosting experienceCredit: Getty
      MARK CHAPMAN
      The much-loved “Chappers” already has huge experience and has performed the role temporarily before.
      He also has experience of presenting but has hosted Match of the Day 2 on BBC One and Sky Sports’ coverage of the EFL Cup – but he now too is understood to have declared that he is standing with Lineker.
      MARK POUGATCH
      The 55-year-old also has huge experience in radio and television broadcasting.
      He is currently the Chief Sport Presenter for ITV Sport and fronts their major football and rugby coverage. 
      He is also the sideline reporter for Stan Sport’s UEFA competition coverage. 
      MANISH BHASIN
      Another well-known face and potential candidate for the job.
      He is a sports journalist and presenter broadcasting for Premier League Productions as the face of the Premier League’s global coverage to over 700 million viewers.
      And he also already works for the Beeb too.
      ALAN SHEARER OR IAN WRIGHT
      The two former England internationals are both regular pundits on Match of the Day and have been for years.
      They are close friends with Lineker, which could potentially be an issue.
      Wright announced that he would refuse to be on Saturday’s show after the news broke regarding Lineker.
      And that stance was swiftly followed by Newcastle legend Shearer, who tweeted: “I have informed the BBC that I won’t be appearing on MOTD tomorrow night.”
      GABBY LOGAN
      The Welsh presenter is a former international rhythmic gymnast who represented Wales and Great Britain.
      Read More on The Sun
      She hosted Final Score for BBC Sport from 2009 until 2013.
      And she can always be relied upon to step up for duty should the occasion arise.
      Logan hosted Final Score for BBC Sport from 2009 until 2013Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Ian Wright is refusing to appear on the show as an act of solidarityCredit: Getty More

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      Micah Richards backs Ian Wright & Alan Shearer after Match of the Day hosts pull out in ‘solidarity’ with Gary Lineker

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      FOOTIE pundit Micah Richards has backed Ian Wright and Alan Shearer after the Match of the Day hosts pulled out in “solidarity” with Gary Lineker.The BBC said Mr Lineker’s criticism of the Government’s Illegal Migration Bill on Twitter was a “breach of our guidelines”.
      Micah Richards has backed Ian Wright and Alan Shearer
      Gary Lineker will step back from presenting duties on Match of the Day until a ‘clear position’ on his social media use is agreedCredit: Splash
      The pundit will now step back from presenting duties on the flagship football show – that he’s presented since 1999 – until a “clear position” on his social media use is agreed.
      Now, football pundit Micah Richards ruled himself out as the new host of tonight’s show.
      In a tweet last night he said: “I was not due to be working on MOTD tomorrow, but if I was, I would find myself taking the same decision that Ian Wright & Alan Shearer have.”
      It comes as Shearer and Wright pulled out of Match of the Day after the BBC’s decision to remove Gary Lineker from air.
      read more in Football
      Arsenal legend Wright tweeted: “Everybody knows what Match of the Day means to me, but I’ve told the BBC I won’t be doing it tomorrow. Solidarity.”
      Shearer, 52, later followed suit, saying: “I have informed the BBC that I won’t be appearing on MOTD tomorrow night.”
      Fellow pundit Scott says she also won’t step in.
      In a cryptic tweet the ex-Lioness shared a meme of US politician Bernie Sanders saying: “Nah… not for me.”
      Most read in Football
      It is unclear who will present the show in place of the pundits.
      Mr Lineker sparked a free speech row when he compared the Governments plans to ban migrants arriving on small boats from settling in Britain with “1930’s Germany”.
      It came as he responded to a video on Twitter of Home Secretary Suella Braverman as she presented the Government’s plan.
      The legislation will see migrants swiftly detained and removed to either their country of origin or a safe third state within 28 days.
      Sharing the clip, Mr Lineker said: “Good heavens, this is beyond awful.”
      Responding to another user who described him as “out of order”, he added: “We take far fewer refugees than other major European countries.
      “This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s, and I’m out of order?”
      In a statement earlier, the BBC outlined they had undergone “extensive discussions” with the ex-England star, 62, following the furore.

      While the beeb praised his sports coverage as “second to none” they said he should “keep well away from taking sides” on party political topics.
      The full statement read: “The BBC has been in extensive discussions with Gary and his team in recent days.
      “We have said that we consider his recent social media activity to be a breach of our guidelines.
      “The BBC has decided that he will step back from presenting Match of the Day until we’ve got an agreed and clear position on his use of social media.
      “When it comes to leading our football and sports coverage, Gary is second to none.
      “We have never said that Gary should be an opinion free zone, or that he can’t have a view on issues that matter to him, but we have said that he should keep well away from taking sides on party political issues or political controversies.”
      Sun columnist Piers Morgan reacted in fury at the “ridiculous” decision to suspend his pal Mr Lineker – accusing the BBC of being “pathetically spineless”.
      The TalkTV’s host fumed: “This is a ridiculous decision and if the BBC really believes its presenters shouldn’t have political opinions then I look forward to them suspending David Attenborough…
      Read More on The Sun
      “And Alan Sugar and everyone else who has presented BBC shows but makes public their opinions.”
      Meanwhile, Alastair Campbell – who hosts a podcast run by Mr Lineker’s media firm Goalhanger Podcasts – told Sky News he fears “we’ve seen him on Match of the Day for the last time.” More

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      Match of the Day latest — Gary Lineker pulled by BBC as show to air with NO presenters or commentators

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      GARY Lineker has been pulled by BBC from Match of the Day after his controversial statements about new immigration legislation.In a statement, the BBC said it has “decided that he will step back from presenting Match of the Day until we’ve got an agreed and clear position on his use of social media.”
      Since Lineker was pulled, fellow presenter and former Arsenal star Ian Wright announced that he would refuse to be on the show on Saturday night. Alan Shearer quickly followed suit.
      The BBC has since announced that the show will go on but there will be no hosts.
      It comes after Mr Lineker sparked a major backlash this week when he took to Twitter to hit out at the Illegal Migration Bill, which bans migrants who arrive on small boats from ever settling in Britain.
      “This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the ’30s, and I’m out of order?,” the former Leicester player wrote.
      Follow our Match of the Day blog for news and updates…
      Disagrees with Lineker
      Clarkson continued: All that being said, I disagree with him.
      All of the people arriving in Kent have come from France which, last time I looked, is not a war zone.
      And many are economic migrants who see the UK as a soft touch.
      So there you are. Two differing views.
      One from a former footballer and crisp enthusiast and another from a motoring journalist turned farmer. Take your pick.
      But remember, whatever you decide, you have to accept that in a free country, you can’t really go around sacking people for expressing an opinion.
      Jeremy Clarkson reacts
      In a comment piece for The Sun, Clarkson wrote the following.
      People have been calling for Gary Lineker to be sacked because he says Britain’s new policy of slamming the door on anyone who arrives in Kent on a small boat reminds him of policies used in 1930s Germany.
      Well now look. Gary’s bright and likeable. And he’s entitled to air his views on the matter.
      I know the BBC gets its impartiality knickers in a twist every time he says something controversial but he’s a football pundit. Not Huw Edwards.
      Mark Chapman ruled out
      Mark Chapman has reportedly ruled himself out as the Match of the Day host after fellow pundits pulled out in “solidarity” with Gary Lineker.
      Now, football pundit Mark Chapman is thought to have ruled himself out of the race to be the new host.
      Chief Sports Reporter at the Daily Mail Matt Hughes said in a tweet: “BBC desperately scrambling to secure a new presenter for Match of the Day, with Alex Scott and Mark Chapman both ruling themselves out following withdrawal of Alan Shearer and Ian Wright as pundits.”
      The BBC has since revealed that the show will go ahead, but with no hosts.
      MOTD plunged into meltdown
      Match of the Day hosts staged a mutiny tonight after the BBC yanked Gary Lineker off air over the Nazi tweet row — plunging the flagship show into chaos.
      Ian Wright and Alan Shearer walked out in “solidarity” with Lineker, 62, who had compared the Government’s language around its small boats crackdown to that of 1930s Germany.
      The BBC was left scrambling to find a panel for the show, as other stars ruled themselves out.

      Inside Gary Lineker’s reaction to suspension
      Friends said Lineker had been blindsided by the statement and was being benched against his will. 
      It left Match of the Day 2 presenter Mark Chapman as favourite to step in.
      The Beeb could not say when ex-England ace Lineker will return.
      Tonight it appeared there was no way back for the star at the BBC.
      He was ordered to issue a “humiliating apology” by execs or face being “rested” from the show. 
      Jermaine Jenas says he WON’T host
      Jermaine Jenas has become the SIXTH pundit to rule himself out of presenting Match of the Day following Gary Lineker’s suspension.
      Following an exodus of pundits from Saturday night’s show, Jenas tweeted: “Been on air with the one show.
      “I wasn’t down to be doing match of the day tomorrow, but if I was I would of said no and stood with my fellow pundits and@GaryLineker.”
      Actor and comedian sends support to Lineker
      Famous actor and comedian Julian Clary took to Twitter to add to the support of Gary Lineker after he was suspended for a controversial tweet.
      Clary wrote: “Before they ask, no, I won’t go on #MOTD I stand with Gary Lineker. Hit them where it hurts.”
      Although Clary would most likely not appear on the show that didn’t stop the comedian from having some fun and showing support.
      Former footballer shares his opinion
      Former Welsh footballer David Cotterill is not exactly thrilled to see all the support suddenly for Gary Lineker after his controversial tweet.
      He wrote: “Everyone now sticking up for Gary Lineker about free speech.”
      Cotterill added: “Where was everyone when Matt Le Tissier got sacked from Sky Sports supporting him and his free speech? Might I add he’s been right about everything! I didn’t see no football pundits sticking up for him.”
      Sky Sports Reporter comments on situation
      Chief Reporter Kaveh Solhekol gave his take on the Gary Lineker debacle on Twitter.
      He said: “Gary Lineker suspended by the BBC for upsetting the Conservatives because he stood up for some of the most vulnerable people in the world.”
      Solhekol continued: “The same BBC whose chairman gave the Conservatives £400,000 before helping to arrange an £800,000 loan for Boris Johnson.”
      Commentators off show too
      MOTD commentator Steve Wilson has confirmed that the show’s commentators will also be stepping down from Saturday’s broadcast in solidarity to Gary Lineker.
      Wilson wrote on Twitter: “As commentators on MOTD, we have decided to step down from tomorrow night’s broadcast.
      “We are comforted that football fans who want to watch their teams should still be able to do so, as management can use World Feed commentary if they wish.”

      Piers Morgan slams BBC, continued
      Sir David Attenborough has criticised the Government’s environmental record while Lord Sugar urged Brits to back the Tories in 2019.
      In a later Tweet, TalkTV’s Piers accused the BBC of being “pathetically spineless” over the decision.
      Mr Lineker sparked a free speech row when he compared the Governments plans to ban migrants arriving on small boats from settling in Britain with “1930’s Germany”.
      It came as he responded to a video on Twitter of Home Secretary Suella Braverman as she presented the Government’s plan.
      Piers Morgan slams BBC
      Piers Morgan has blasted the BBC’s “ridiculous” decision to pull Gary Lineker off Match of the Day.
      He fumed: “This is a ridiculous decision and if the BBC really believes its presenters shouldn’t have political opinions then I look forward to them suspending David Attenborough…
      “And Alan Sugar and everyone else who has presented BBC shows but makes public their opinions.”
      Inside Gary Lineker’s Twitter disaster
      Lineker took to Twitter to hit out at the Illegal Migration Bill, which bans migrants who arrive on small boats from settling in Britain.
      He tweeted: “This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the ’30s, and I’m out of order?”
      Since the tweet, Lineker has been suspended from hosting MOTD by BBC with no timetable set for a return.
      Mark Chapman’s future with MOTD
      Mark Chapman has reportedly ruled himself out as the Match of the Day host after fellow pundits pulled out in “solidarity” with Gary Lineker.
      Chief Sports Reporter at the Daily Mail Matt Hughes said in a tweet: “BBC desperately scrambling to secure a new presenter for Match of the Day, with Alex Scott and Mark Chapman both ruling themselves out following withdrawal of Alan Shearer and Ian Wright as pundits.”
      Alex Scott confirms future with MOTD
      Gary Lineker has been suspended for the time being by the BBC Network and rumors have arisen that Alex Scott could possibly take over.
      In a cryptic tweet, the ex-Lioness shared a gif of US politician Bernie Sanders saying: “Nah… not for me.”
      There has been no timetable for Lineker’s return to the premiere show as his co-hosts Ian Wright and Alan Shearer are set to boycott tomorrow’s episode.

      BBC spokesperson says NO hosts on Saturday’s show
      A BBC spokesperson said: “Some of our pundits have said that they don’t wish to appear on the programme while we seek to resolve the situation with Gary.
      “We understand their position and we have decided that the programme will focus on match action without studio presentation or punditry.”
      MOTD going ahead with NO live hosts
      Match of the Day will go ahead tomorrow – but WITHOUT presenters.
      The BBC told The Sun the exodus of pundits following Gary Linker’s suspension means they will show only football.
      No commentary or analysis will happen on Saturday night’s show.

      Possible replacement for MOTD: Gabby Logan
      The Welsh presenter is a former international rhythmic gymnast who represented Wales and Great Britain.
      She hosted Final Score for BBC Sport from 2009 until 2013.
      And she can always be relied upon to step up for duty should the occasion arise.
      Possible replacement for MOTD: Manish Bhasin
      Another well-known face and a potential candidate for the job.
      He is a sports journalist and presenter broadcasting for Premier League Productions as the face of the Premier League’s global coverage to over 700million viewers.
      And he also already works for the Beeb too.
      Possible replacement for MOTD: Mark Pougatch
      The 55-year-old also has huge experience in radio and television broadcasting.
      He is currently the Chief Sport Presenter for ITV Sport and fronts their major football and rugby coverage. 
      He is also the sideline reporter for Stan Sport’s UEFA competition coverage. 
      Possible replacement for MOTD: Mark Chapman
      The much-loved “Chappers” already has huge experience and has performed the role temporarily before.
      He also has experience presenting but has hosted Match of the Day 2 on BBC One and Sky Sports’ coverage of the EFL Cup.
      Chapman has recently revealed he will not be stepping in to take over as one of the MOTD hosts.
      Possible replacement for MOTD: Jermaine Jenas
      The 40-year-old former Premier League star regularly works as a pundit and commentator for BBC and BT Sport.
      Jenas began co-presenting The One Show on BBC One with Alex Jones and became one of its permanent hosts the following year.
      Last year he also performed the role of “Draw Conductor” for the 2022 FIFA World Cup draw.
      Jenas recently tweeted about joining MOTD: “Been on air with the one show, I wasn’t down to be doing match of the day tomorrow, but if I was I would have said no and stood with my fellow pundits and@GaryLineker.”

      Possible replacement for MOTD: Alex Scott
      The former Lionesses star, 38, began her media career while still playing football, appearing on programmes such as Soccer AM and also had other minor roles at BBC Sport, BT Sport, and Sky Sports.
      She started co-presenting on Match of the Day Kickabout after retirement and then made history as a pundit at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first female football pundit at a World Cup for the BBC.
      In August 2019, Scott was announced as the new co-host of Sky Sports’ Goals on Sunday alongside Chris Kamara and has been a regular presenter on the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards while she is also a frequent guest presenter on The One Show.
      Scott recently broke her silence on the issue and said she won’t step in to host Match of the Day.
      Possible replacement for MOTD: James Corden
      The Brit currently hosts the hit Late Late Show in America and is also set to stay Stateside to film his CBS chat show until next year before leaving the post following eight years in the job.
      Corden has previously presented the sports-based panel show A League of Their Own and is no stranger to football with the star being a huge West Ham supporter.
      He was tipped as a contender to replace Lineker last year, with Lineker even tweeting the ‘eyes’ emoji in response to the story.
      Possible replacements for Gary Lineker
      Since the suspension of Gary Lineker rumours has swirled of a potential new host taking over.
      The former England striker hit the headlines after he compared new immigration legislation to 1930s Germany.
      BBC added that the suspension will remain in place until an agreement is reached on his social media use – which could potentially mean it is for the long term.
      So attention turns to who could replace him in the MOTD hot seat.

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      Alex Scott reveals she WON’T step in as Match of the Day host in cryptic tweet hours after Gary Lineker pulled off air

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      FOOTIE pundit Alex Scott appeared to say she won’t step in to host Match of the Day in place of Gary Lineker after his suspension from the show.In a cryptic tweet the ex-Lioness shared a meme of US politician Bernie Sanders saying: “Nah… not for me.”
      Alex Scott says she won’t step in to host Match of the Day in place of Gary Lineker after he was suspended from the showCredit: Getty
      The ex-Lioness shared a meme of US politician Bernie Sanders saying: ‘Nah… not for me’Credit: Twitter/AlexScott
      Gary Lineker will step back from presenting duties on Match of the Day until a ‘clear position’ on his social media use is agreedCredit: Splash
      The BBC said Mr Lineker’s criticism of the Government’s Illegal Migration Bill on Twitter was a “breach of our guidelines”.
      The pundit will now step back from presenting duties on the flagship football show – that he’s presented since 1999 – until a “clear position” on his social media use is agreed.
      Ms Scott joined fellow Match of the Day hosts Alan Shearer, Ian Wright, Jermaine Jenas, Micah Richards and Mark Chapman in boycotting Saturday’s episode.
      The show’s commentary team are also standing down, with commentators usually heard on football broadcasts outside the UK expected to be shipped in.
      Read More on this story
      Mr Lineker sparked a free speech row when he compared the Governments plans to ban migrants arriving on small boats from settling in Britain with “1930’s Germany”.
      It came as he responded to a video on Twitter of Home Secretary Suella Braverman as she presented the Government’s plan.
      The legislation will see migrants swiftly detained and removed to either their country of origin or a safe third state within 28 days.
      Sharing the clip, Mr Lineker said: “Good heavens, this is beyond awful.”
      Most read in Football
      Responding to another user who described him as “out of order”, he added: “We take far fewer refugees than other major European countries.
      “This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s, and I’m out of order?”
      In a statement earlier, the BBC outlined they had undergone “extensive discussions” with the ex-England star, 62, following the furore.
      While the beeb praised his sports coverage as “second to none” they said he should “keep well away from taking sides” on party political topics.

      The full statement read: “The BBC has been in extensive discussions with Gary and his team in recent days.
      “We have said that we consider his recent social media activity to be a breach of our guidelines.
      “The BBC has decided that he will step back from presenting Match of the Day until we’ve got an agreed and clear position on his use of social media.
      “When it comes to leading our football and sports coverage, Gary is second to none.
      “We have never said that Gary should be an opinion free zone, or that he can’t have a view on issues that matter to him, but we have said that he should keep well away from taking sides on party political issues or political controversies.”
      Sun columnist Piers Morgan reacted in fury at the “ridiculous” decision to suspend his pal Mr Lineker – accusing the BBC of being “pathetically spineless”.
      The TalkTV’s host fumed: “This is a ridiculous decision and if the BBC really believes its presenters shouldn’t have political opinions then I look forward to them suspending David Attenborough…
      Read More on The Sun
      “And Alan Sugar and everyone else who has presented BBC shows but makes public their opinions.”
      Meanwhile, Alastair Campbell – who hosts a podcast run by Mr Lineker’s media firm Goalhanger Podcasts – told Sky News he fears “we’ve seen him on Match of the Day for the last time.”
      Alan Shearer has joined Ian Wright in boycotting Match of the Day tonightCredit: Alamy More