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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.

      Load more entries… More

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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

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      Ian Wright AND Alan Shearer pull out of Match of the Day in ‘solidarity’ after Gary Lineker taken off air

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      IAN WRIGHT and Alan Shearer pulled out of Match of the Day after the BBC’s decision to remove Gary Lineker from air.England and 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.”
      Ian Wright will not appear on Match of the Day this weekendCredit: Rex
      Neither will Alan ShearerCredit: Alamy
      Gary Lineker has been ordered to “step back” from the showCredit: BBC
      The pundit made the decision shortly after the BBC pulled Lineker from presenting the Premier League highlights programme this weekend.
      Shearer then followed suit.
      The Newcastle legend tweeted: “I have informed the BBC that I won’t be appearing on MOTD tomorrow night.”
      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.
      READ MORE ON LINEKER
      They added that the suspension will remain in place until an agreement is reached on his social media use.
      Wright and Shearer are regular pundits on the show.
      With Lineker absent, the duo would have been among the contenders to replace him on hosting duties.
      However, the BBC have announced there will be NO HOST this weekend.
      Most read in Football
      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 decision came after potential candidates fell like dominoes.
      Dan Walker, who used to present Football Focus and would occasionally sit in for Lineker on MOTD tweeted: “I used to sit in for Gary Lineker on MOTD… not sure I’d fancy it this weekend. What a mess!”
      Manchester United legend Gary Neville also chimed in.
      He tweeted: “I had no doubt Ian Wright would do that! Who the hell is going to go on now!”
      Regular pundit and The One Show host Jermaine 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”
      Alex Scott quickly emerged as a favourite to fill in, however she cryptically tweeted a meme of Bernie Sanders saying: “Nah, not me.”
      Mark Chapman, host of Sunday highlights show Match of the Day 2, is also understood to have refused to take the gig.
      Micah Richards, a regular pundit on MoTD, announced he would join the boycott had he been due to be on the show this weekend.
      He tweeted: “I was not due to be working on MOTD tomorrow, but if I was, I would find myself taking the same decision that @IanWright0 & @alanshearer have.”
      Saturday’s show will include highlights of Bournemouth vs Liverpool, Leeds vs Brighton, Everton vs Brentford, Leicester vs Chelsea, Tottenham vs Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace vs Man City.
      MAJOR BACKLASH
      It comes after Lineker sparked 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.
      A BBC statement said: “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.”
      A spokesperson added that the Beeb considered Lineker’s “recent social media activity to be a breach of our guidelines” and that he should “keep well away from taking sides on party political issues or political controversies”.
      However, Sky News’ Rob Harris tweeted that a source close to the long-time presenter had revealed that he has not agreed to “step back” and is claiming that the BBC took him off the air.
      Mr Harris added: “It’s understood Lineker is unwilling to apologise for his tweets and admit he should not have posted them.”
      The BBC have been approached for comment regarding this claim.
      Friends said Lineker had been blindsided by the statement and was being benched against his will. 
      The row ignited after Lineker tweeted in reference to the Government’s new immigration bill, saying: “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?”
      The legislation will see migrants swiftly detained and removed to either their country of origin or a safe third state within 28 days.
      But the bill faces an uphill battle against human rights groups and campaigners who argue it clashes with the European Convention on Human Rights.
      The BBC’s decision to suspend him represents an about turn after a BBC source previously said: “We have spoken to Gary and he won’t face any disciplinary action.
      “From our perspective the situation has been resolved now and we want him to get back to what he’s best at, which is being a brilliant sports presenter.”
      Lineker himself previously addressed the controversy, saying: “Well, it’s been an interesting couple of days. Happy that this ridiculously out of proportion story seems to be abating and very much looking forward to presenting Match of the Day on Saturday.
      “Thanks again for all your incredible support. It’s been overwhelming.”
      He declared yesterday morning that he stands by his tweets hitting out at Rishi Sunak’s crackdown on illegal migration.
      Outside his London home, the the defiant presenter told reporters he isn’t scared of being sacked for expressing political views.
      He added: “I have never known such love and support in my life than I’m getting this morning (England World Cup goals aside, possibly).
      “I want to thank each and every one of you. It means a lot. I’ll continue to try and speak up for those poor souls that have no voice. Cheers all.”

      The former England captain began presenting the Beeb’s flagship football show, Match of the Day in 1999.
      He has been regarded as one of the key faces on English football in the year since and was praised by ex-BBC chief Richard Ayre. who described him as “one of the BBC’s crown jewels”.
      However, Mr Ayre warned that the corporation might need to “let Lineker go unless he can be certain that this is the end of it”, referring to his social media activity.
      Lineker has been accused by Tory MPs of frequently pushing boundaries of BBC impartiality guidelines.
      Read More on The Sun
      Previously, the broadcaster’s complaints team found him guilty of breaking impartiality rules in a tweet asking if the Tories planned to “hand back their donations from Russian donors”.
      In defence of Lineker, TalkTV’s Piers Morgan wrote: “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.” More

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      I look forward to BBC suspending David Attenborough and Alan Sugar after taking Gary Lineker off air, Piers says

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      PIERS Morgan has blasted the BBC’s “ridiculous” decision to pull Gary Lineker off Match of the Day.The corporation said Mr Lineker’s criticism of the Government’s Illegal Migration Bill on Twitter was a “breach of our guidelines”.
      Piers Morgan has blasted the BBC’s ‘ridiculous’ decision to pull Gary Lineker off Match of The DayCredit: PA
      Gary 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.
      Piers blasted the BBC’s decision to suspend his pal.
      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.”
      Read More on this story
      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.
      Most read in Football
      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 Ian Wight said he will boycott Saturday’s episode in “solidarity”.
      He 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.”
      And Alan Shearer shortly followed suit, tweeting: “I have informed the BBC that I won’t be appearing on MOTD tomorrow night.”
      Alex 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.
      Read More on The Sun
      And Steve Wilson, one of the flagship footie show’s commentators, said him and his colleagues will not be heard in Saturday’s episode. More

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      ‘This relationship isn’t working’ – Glamorous BBC and BT Sport presenter ‘breaks up’ with ‘toxic’ Tottenham

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      TV presenter Reshmin Chowdhury has announced she’s broken up with “toxic lover” Tottenham.Sympathy and advice poured in from fans when the glamorous BBC and BT Sport broadcaster decided “the relationship isn’t working” following Spurs’ Champions League exit.
      Reshmin Chowdhury gave Spurs another chance but reckons they let her down as the exited the Champions League with barely a fightCredit: Twitter
      Harry Kane and Co were booted out of Europe and then dumped by ReshminCredit: Alamy
      Rueful Reshmin untied the Tott after Antonio Conte’s men made little effort to impress her in Wednesday’s 0-0 home stalemate with AC Milan.
      Shakespeare would surely have argued: “Better to have loved and drawn than never to have loved at all.”
      But the result sent Harry Kane and Co crashing out at the last-16 stage 1-0 on aggregate.
      Londoner Reshmin, 45, even revealed she had briefly dumped Spurs over the weekend when they lost 1-0 in the Premier League at Wolves.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      But early in Wednesday’s woeful display she posted optimistically from the stands: “Tottenham – the toxic lover I took a break from last Saturday.
      “I needed space. But he’s already pulled me back in. Can he keep me after tonight?”
      However, after seeing her hopes of being charmed back wither and die, she wrote: “Spurs and I are taking an extended break.
      “This relationship isn’t working. Nothing is working. At least your comments kept me entertained! Thank you and goodnight.”
      Most read in Champions League
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST SPORTS BETTING APPS IN THE UK
      One fed-up fan responded: “I think I’ll join you too. Spurs are hazardous to your health.”
      Another added: “I’ve had to go for a drink on my own to calm down. I know we don’t win stuff but not giving it a go is unacceptable in my book.”
      A third moaned: “It’s so depressing watching us at the moment.”
      But a few supporters reckon Reshmin still has the hots for the Totts.
      One wrote: “Extended break…until the weekend?”
      And if she does keep a fire burning for Tottenham, some supporters suggested she should look on the bright side.
      One fan said: “Try supporting a team that is not 4th or in the Champions League. It’s not the end of the world. There’s still football on a weekend/Monday.”
      But if Reshmin does try to go cold turkey, another supporter had a helpful tip.
      Read More on The Sun
      They suggested: “If there’s ever a Spurs game on TV find a movie that’s 90-95 minutes. My go-to will be American Pie, more entertaining and will have a better time.”
      Antonio Conte’s men slumped out of Europe with a drab draw vs AC MilanCredit: Alamy More

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      ‘I looked ridiculous’ – Match of the Day host Gary Lineker reveals he couldn’t raise eyebrow on TV after botox blunder

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      GARY LINEKER has revealed that he will never get a facelift after botox left him unable to raise his eyebrows while on television.The Match of the Day host has opened up on how he stays in shape and tries to look younger.
      Gary Lineker was left unable to move his eyebrow live on TVCredit: Getty
      The 62-year-old chatted to fellow BBC presenter Gabby Logan on the MidPoint podcast, coming clean about his botox blunder.
      Lineker said: “I don’t mind a bit of pampering, massages. I quite like a facial or a head massage – I love a head massage.”
      The ex-England striker was asked if he would ever consider a facelift and, without hesitation, he declined.
      Lineker continued: “A facelift? God no. No.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      “Why? I did Botox once as well, years ago, and I just looked ridiculous.
      “I couldn’t raise my eyebrow. I went on telly to give it a little look on camera, but it wasn’t moving.”
      The former Leicester, Tottenham and Barcelona man prefers to hit the gym to keep up his good looks rather than getting injections.
      Lineker said: “I always do the gym on Monday mornings. I work out three or four times a week and do pilates as well.
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      “I think the older you get the more you need to do, really. I think it’s quite easy in mid-life to just give up when you start seeing the waistline expand a little bit.
      “It’s funny I hate training. I’ve never liked it in my entire life, but I like it even less when I miss it because I think it’s important.
      “But I do love the feeling after, in the shower, thinking you’ve actually done it.”
      “The problem with training [as a footballer] was that I don’t think it was particularly thought out very well. I think it’s probably changed now.
      “I was a striker, so I wanted to practice and wanted to train the things that would hone my skills.
      “So I wanted to practice finishing every day and was perfectly happy doing hard fitness training, but most of it was five-a-side with little goals and it seemed pretty pointless.
      “Even doing a shooting session, they’d get the whole team to do it, you’d get one shot every ten minutes. Complete waste of time.” More

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      How John Motson became the voice of football after a muddy afternoon at Hereford changed his life forever

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      BRITISH football lost its voice yesterday when legendary commentator John Motson died aged 77.For half a century, “Motty” and his sheepskin coat brought the beautiful game to life with his infectious enthusiasm, unmatchable statistics and iconic tones.
      British football lost its voice yesterday when legendary commentator John Motson died aged 77Credit: PA
      Motson takes the mic at Old Trafford in his first season of 1971/72
      And in his final season for the BBC at Arsenal in 2021Credit: Getty
      The former BBC broadcaster was behind the microphone for more than 2,000 games, including 29 FA Cup Finals, and covering ten World Cups and ten Euros.
      Last night tributes poured in from across the world to the commentator Piers Morgan hailed as the G.O.A.T — greatest of all time.
      Match of the Day host Gary Lineker called him “brilliant” and “the voice of football in this country for generations”. Ex-England star Alan Shearer wrote: “RIP Motty. An incredible career. The voice.”
      Prince William added: “Very sad to hear about the passing of John Motson — a legend whose voice was football. My thoughts are with his family and friends.”
      READ MORE ON JOHN MOTSON
      Motson’s success was down to preparation as much as perspiration in that heavy jacket, with wife Anne helping him collate information on players and games.
      They did not use a computer — preferring instead to draw on their own archive of press clippings, and Motson’s laser focus for detail produced many memorable moments.
      Before his first FA Cup Final in 1977, he walked up the Wembley steps to where the trophy would be collected and counted 39.
      Then, when Man United’s winning captain Martin Buchan strode up, Motson delivered a killer reference to John Buchan’s classic novel. He said to the millions at home: “How appropriate that a man called Buchan should be the first to climb the 39 steps to the Royal Box.”
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      However he may never have been there at all if not for a muddy FA Cup Third Round replay at non-league Hereford United against mighty Newcastle in 1972.
      When Ronnie Radford hit a late 30-yard screamer to equalise, an excitable Motson screamed into the mic: “Oh, what a goal! What a goal! Radford the scorer, Ronnie Radford, and the crowd, the crowd are invading the pitch and it will take some time to clear the field.”
      Having captured the moment so perfectly, Motson would no longer be a junior commentator.
      He later said: “I was on trial at Match of the Day for a year and I got given this game, and then Ronnie changed everything.
      “He changed his life, my life, the history of the FA Cup with a goal that came out of nowhere.”
      Born in Salford, Motson moved around the country as his Methodist minister dad William went from post to post.
      His first taste of football came in London aged seven when he watched Chelsea play at Charlton Athletic, near where he then lived.
      He was instantly hooked and became a Chelsea fan, although he later pretended to support Barnet to avoid accusations of bias. 
      Motson’s first job was on a local paper in Barnet, North London, in 1963, before moving to the Sheffield Morning Telegraph four years later.
      On reading his work, one cruel editor suggested he try broadcasting instead. He joined the BBC in 1968 — but it was not until Radford’s rocket that his own career took off. It landed him a three-year contract, covering a range of sports.
      In 1974 he co-commentated with heavyweight legend Muhammad Ali on a Joe Bugner fight in London. He tried to hand the mic to Ali only to discover he had vanished.
      Motson recalled: “He was in the ring trying to box Bugner.”
      Reporting on Wimbledon tennis in 1981 he landed an impromptu interview with actor Jack Nicholson. When Motson got a message in his ear from the studio demanding the tennis latest, Jack said in his scary Shining voice: “Just give ’em the score, Johnnnyy.” 
      But it is football for which Motson will be forever remembered. 
      A huge factor in his success was Anne, who he married in 1976. She kept a log detailing all his games.
      Motson said: “My research is based mainly on my wife’s wonderful record book which she keeps dutifully and diligently every day of the season with all the teams, matches, appearances, goalscorers, newspaper cuttings, you name it.”
      However Motson was not immune to the odd blunder. He once said: “Brazil — they’re so good it’s like they’re running round the pitch playing with themselves.” 
      In the 1990s his rival Barry Davies got two FA Cup Finals so the perfectionist felt he had to raise his game. Motson, awarded an OBE in 2001, said: “You felt that if you dropped a clanger you might be out of work. I would have sleepless nights sweating on getting it right. 
      “There were recriminations if something went wrong, naked fury.”
      Getting his MBE with wife Anne who helped him collate information on players and gamesCredit: PA:Press Association
      John in the hot seat during the 1986 World Cup finals in MexicoCredit: Getty
      It started at a muddy FA Cup Third Round replay at non-league Hereford United against mighty Newcastle in 1972Credit: PA
      The affable Motson also had to face occasional bouts of rage from angry managers. Then-Man United boss Alex Ferguson, who had been a good pal, snarled at him in 1995: “You’ve no right to ask me that question, John. You’re out of order.” 
      All he did was ask if Roy Keane would be punished for being sent off for the third time in 14 games.
      His toughest career moment was in 1989 commenting at the FA Cup semi between Nottingham Forest and Liverpool at Hillsborough. His son Fred said the disaster, where 96 fans were killed, “was really something that weighed on him”.
       Motson’s last day at the BBC came at Crystal Palace’s 2-0 home win against West Brom in 2018. Palace’s then-boss Roy Hodgson presented him with a framed copy of the programmes from his first and last matches. 
      He then joined TalkSport radio soon after and was awarded a Bafta that year to mark his contribution to broadcasting. 
      He and his wife, who lived in a village near Milton Keynes, both had major health scares.
      First Anne beat breast cancer and then ten years later in 2014 her husband was diagnosed with bowel cancer. Motson said: “I knew what courage she showed in the operation. I thought to myself, ‘Come on, keep yourself together and don’t make too much fuss.’ 
      “I was trying to be nearly as brave as she was.” 
      His family said yesterday: “It is with great sadness that we announce that John Motson OBE died peacefully in his sleep today.” 
      Huge rounds of applause are sure to ring out at grounds around the country tomorrow. As the BBC’s director-general Tim Davie said: “John had the right words, at the right time, for all the big moments.” 
      grant.rollings@thesun.co.uk
      ‘HE SET STANDARD’By NICK PARKER
      FELLOW commentators and pundits paid tribute to Motty yesterday.
      Sky’s Martin Tyler said: “John was the standard-setter for us all. 
      “We basically all looked up to him — his diligence, his dedication, his knowledge. He was a very serious broadcaster but he was a real fun guy to be around.”
      Clive Tyldesley said: “As a teenager I just wanted to be John Motson. Nobody else.” BT Sport’s Darren Fletcher posted: “An iconic commentator with his own distinctive and brilliant style.
      “The soundtrack to my youth watching football #RIPMotty.”
      BT Sport and ESPN commentator Ian Darke said: “Probably the most famous football commentator of them all. Meticulously researched and retaining boyish enthusiasm and love of the game over half a century of the biggest games — he set the gold standard.”
      Ex-Blackburn forward and pundit Chris Sutton said: “He was a legendary figure in the commentary box and will be sorely missed. 
      “Thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”

      Classic lines of icon
      ONE of Motty’s most famous quotes was a joke, not a gaffe.
      Commentating on a Tottenham game he said: “For those of you watching in black and white, Spurs are in the all-yellow strip”.
      It was a nod to Ted Lowe’s snooker line: “For those of you watching in black and white, the pink is next to the green.”
      Some of his other lines include: 
      “Villa . . . and still Ricky Villa! What a fantastic run! He’s scored!” — on the Argentine’s mazy winner for Spurs in the 1981 FA Cup Final replay.
      The ‘crazy gang’ of Wimbledon got the Motto treatment as they beat the stars of Liverpool in the 1988 FA Cup finalCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      “And there it is, the Crazy Gang have beaten the Culture Club!” — when no-hopers Wimbledon beat the stars of Liverpool in the 1988 FA Cup Final.
      “It’s there by David Platt. England have done it in the last minute of extra-time. England are through to the quarter-finals of the World Cup and Bobby Robson is ecstatic!” — late drama at the Italia 90 World Cup.
      “Oh dear, oh dear me . . . here is a moment that almost brings tears to his eyes” — on Paul Gascoigne after his booking against West Germany would rule him out of the final at Italia 90.
      Paul Gascoigne was hailed by Motson after his famous volleyed goal against Scotland at Euro 1996Credit: PA:Press Association
      “Here’s Gascoigne . . oh brilliant, oh yes!” — Gazza’s famous volley against Scotland in Euro 96.
      “Ohhh, this is getting better and better and better. One, two, three for Michael Owen!” — Owen gets his hat-trick in England’s 5-1 win over Germany in Munich 2001.
      David Beckham sends England to the 2002 World CupCredit: Allsport – Getty
      “Beckham . . . Yes! He’s done it!” — David Beckham’s brilliant last-gasp free-kick against Greece at Old Trafford in 2001 sends England to the 2002 World Cup.
      “Hold the cups and glasses at home . . . you can smash them now!” Beckham’s penalty beats Argentina at the 2002 World Cup in Japan, broadcast at breakfast time in the UK.
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      “Gerrard! He’s done it! Oh Steven Gerrard!” — injury-time thunderbolt for Liverpool against West Ham in the 2006 FA Cup Final.
      “And the referee has gone across now with his hand in his pocket. He’s been told about it. He’s off, it’s red, it’s Zidane! You can’t excuse that   —   Zidane’s career ends in disgrace!” — Zinedine Zidane’s sending-off for France after a headbutt in the 2006 World Cup Final against Italy. More

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      John Motson quotes: What did the commentator say?

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      THE death of legendary broadcaster John Motson saw tributes pour in from all across the country.Motson was a much loved football commentator on the BBC for over 50 years, and his commentary gave us some unforgettable moments.
      Motson was a football commentator for over 50 years
      What are the most famous John Motson quotes?
      Motson had an ability to add to what was happening on the pitch with his incredible commentary.
      He added humour to his analysis, such as when he said: “For those of you watching in black and white, Spurs are in the all-yellow strip.”
      His comment came as many households across the UK were watching the match on black and white TV sets rather than in colour.
      Here are some other iconic pieces of commentary by him.
      READ MORE ON JOHN MOTSON
      Ronnie Radford
      During Hereford’s shock 2-1 win against Newcastle in their 1972 FA Cup replay, Motson delivered one of his most iconic lines.
      Motson was only meant to cover the match for a five-minute segment but Ronnie Radford’s famous 30-yard strike meant the clash was promoted to the main game.
      He famously remarked on the game: “Oh what a goal! Radford the scorer. Ronnie Radford! And the crowd are on the pitch. What a tremendous shot by Ronnie Radford.”
      The game was a catalyst for Motson, as he believed it was a turning point in his career.
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      Wimbledon win the FA Cup, 1988
      Wimbledon caused one of the biggest ever FA Cup final upsets by beating Kenny Dalglish’s Liverpool team full of stars.
      Lawrie Sanchez scored the winner and Dave Beasant became the first ever goalkeeper to save an FA Cup final penalty at Wembley.
      Their shock victory prompted Motson to say: “The Crazy Gang has beaten the Culture Club”.
      The tears of Gazza, 1990 World Cup Semi-Final
      In his first and only World Cup, Paul Gascogine helped England to their first semi-final for 24 years.
      In the game, an overexuberant Gazza mistimed a challenge on West Germany’s Thomas Berthold which saw him receive a yellow card which would have ruled him out of the final.
      The card saw an eruption of emotion from the midfielder that was perfectly described by the legendary commentator.
      Motty said: “Oh dear. Oh dear me.
      “He’s going to be out of the final, if England get there.
      “Here is a moment that almost brings tears to his eyes.”
      England didn’t make it to the final, losing 4-3 on penalties after extra time.
      Gazza’s goal against Scotland, Euro 96
      One of England’s most iconic goals from one of their greatest ever players, and Motson just helped add to the moment.
      Gascoigne’s incredible solo effort against Scotland, where he dinked the ball over Colin Hendry before firing past Rangers teammate Andy Goram, was perfectly described by Motson.
      He summed up the goal by saying “Here’s Gascoigne. Oh brilliant! Oh yes! Oh yes!”
      Germany 1-5 England, 2001
      Motty confessed that his favourite match he ever commentated on was England’s 5-1 drubbing of Germany in Munich in September 2001.
      The iconic world cup qualifier saw England destroy old rivals Germany on their own patch, and it seemed as though Motson was as excited as the Three Lions fans watching on.
      He screamed: “Ohhh, this is getting better and better and better. One, two, three for Michael Owen!”
      He went on to exclaim “I think this could be our best victory over Germany since the war”.
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      What was John Motson’s cause of death?
      It has not yet been confirmed how John Motson died.
      Motson’s family released a statement on February 23, 2023, saying: “It is with great sadness that we announce that John Motson OBE died peacefully in his sleep today.”  More