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      Alan Shearer in the dark on Gary Lineker’s MOTD replacement, but reveals why he doesn’t want to know who’s coming in

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      ALAN SHEARER remains in the dark over who will replace Gary Lineker as Match of the Day.But he revealed that is just the way he wants it.Alan Shearer had his say on the future of Match of the DayCredit: BBCThe Premier League’s record goalscorer has no plans on leaving like Gary Lineker or Ian WrightCredit: SunSport / BetfairLineker, 64, confirmed he will finish presenting the Premier League highlights show at the end of the season.And No1 pundit Shearer still has no idea who the BBC plan to bring into the hot seat with Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan, Alex Scott and Kelly Somers among the bookies’ favourites.But the Premier League record goalscorer and Betfair ambassador hinted at one name who could be the obvious choice  – and confirmed one man who definitely will not be taking over.Shearer, 54, told SunSport: “I haven’t got a clue what’s going to happen, who will present. READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“Mark Chapman does Match of the Day 2, so I don’t know whether that means he’ll come into Match of the Day or not. “I haven’t got a clue. I probably don’t want to know because I wouldn’t want to lie to people when they ask me. It’s probably best that I don’t know.”SunSport revealed the Beeb want to introduce a job share in a major shake-up – but Chapman is understood to be refusing the idea. Asked if he could be the next presenter, Shearer quickly ruled himself out of the running.Most read in FootballThe Newcastle legend said: “I’m not planning to go anywhere soon but no [don’t want to be the presenter]. I enjoy the punditry side of it. “I don’t know whether you saw it, I did it, I opened the show a couple of weeks ago and I only had eight words to do and I was sweating then. No, they’ll get someone else.”Watch Alan Shearer’s cheeky pitch to be new Match of the Day host in first show since Gary Lineker exit confirmedLineker started hosting Match of the Day all the way back in 1999 and the former Barcelona and England striker has developed into one of the best sports broadcasters in the country. He will continue to present FA Cup matches next season before bowing out with the 2026 World Cup in North America.Shearer is desperate for their swansong together to end with a major trophy for the Three Lions.But he insists nothing has changed on Saturdays since news of Lineker’s departure has become public – although thankfully for the presenter, Shearer was not on this weekend’s show as Newcastle stuffed Leicester 4-0. Shearer, who is also part of the Rest Is Football alongside Lineker, added: “It’s been as it was. There’s been no change. I think it’s fine that it’s out. It’s better for everyone. “Gary’s been an amazing presenter for so long and still is. Who could replace Gary Lineker as MOTD host?GARY LINEKER dropped the shock news that he is QUITTING Match of the Day.The popular presenter, 63, took over hosting duties on the flagship BBC programme from Des Lynam in 1999.But after more than 25 years in the studio hotseat, he has called time on his MOTD gig.But as part of a huge shake-up, the BBC is considering rotating the presenters on a weekly basis.So with Lineker vacating the chair, new names will step into his giant boots. But who could they be?MARK CHAPMANChapman, 51, is the obvious early favourite to follow on from Lineker as MOTD presenter.He already has the gig as MOTD2 host on a Sunday night plus landed the presenting job for the new BBC Champions League highlights show.ALEX SCOTTScott gets the nod from the Beeb bosses when Lineker is away.The former right-back, 40, is used to presenting the Saturday night show as well as live match coverage – plus ticks the box as a former England international.GABBY LOGANLike Scott, Logan, 51, is one of the understudies to step in when Lineker is not available.She has done most gigs since joining the BBC in 2007, including Olympics, Sports Personality of the Year and Final Score.MICAH RICHARDSLineker’s top pick to replace him is exuberant former Man City defender Richards.The departing host told his close pal, 36, on their Stick to Football podcast: “I’d love to see you take over Micah, I think you’d be brilliant in the chair.”JASON MOHAMMADMohammad could earn the “promotion” from Final Score to Match of the Day.The 51-year-old Welshman – who took over from Logan in 2013 – is one of the BBC’s top earners already and is more senior than fellow Final Score and BBC Sport broadcaster Kelly Somers, who could in theory become the main live host for the afternoon slot.JEFF STELLINGHe couldn’t, could he? While Lineker has been the face of Saturday night TV for football fans for years, the face of the afternoons was Stelling in his role as Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday presenter.He would bring plenty of on-screen charisma, wit and legendary TV expertise – but at nearly 70 and currently with talkSPORT, the Hartlepool fan would not be a cheap or long-term appointment.“I think it’s good that he’s going out on a high in terms of the World Cup. To go out and finish in America, that’s without a doubt going on a high. “Thomas Tuchel’s ultimately been hired with the objective of winning it and that would be pretty special. “We’ll just enjoy the rest of the season. We always have a laugh and a joke on a Saturday, whether it’s about his team Leicester or Newcastle or whoever it may be and I think it’s really important that that will carry on. “He’s done it for so long – 25 years will be his legacy of presenting the iconic football programme. “I watched it every single week in my youth with my mum and dad. Then for me to play professional football and be on it, and then for me to sit on it, I’m lucky to be a part of Match of the Day for as long as I have been. READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’ll be 20 years next year for me. So it’s been amazing. It’s a great show and still has the biggest numbers. And that iconic theme music never gets old, does it?”Don’t miss Alan Shearer vs Rachael Blackmore in Betfair’s Christmas Quizzing… Only Bettor, streamed live on Friday 20 DecemberLineker will leave the highlights show at the end of this seasonCredit: BBCShearer is approaching 20 years on MOTD – but ruled himself out of being the hostCredit: PAMark Chapman is among the favourites to take over from Lineker for the 2025-26 seasonCredit: Getty More

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      Gary Lineker told ‘you do know you worked for the BBC for 30 years?’ as he jokes ‘it’s pointless them sacking me now’

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      GARY LINEKER joked “it’s pointless them sacking me now” as Micah Richards poked fun at the BBC stalwart.Lineker, 64, announced last month that he will be quitting Match of the Day at the end of the season after 26 years as host.Gary Lineker is set to leave the BBC in 2026Credit: ReutersHe will continue presenting FA Cup action on the Beeb during the 2025-26 season, before leaving the broadcaster after the 2026 World Cup.During the latest episode of The Rest is Football, Lineker discussed watching the Champions League earlier this week.The former BT Sport anchor said: “I really do like this format. I sat last night and watched the first 20 minutes of City, the second 25 minutes of Arsenal.”And then I put the Goals Show on, which is really good because because it’s a little bit like Soccer Saturday where they’re talking about the games but you actually see the action with it.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”So when the goals go in it’s quite good to keep across all of it. Then I’m constantly checking my phone for the league table and how it changes every few seconds.”It keeps it really interesting, every game’s big, every game’s really important.”Micah Richards cheekily replied: “I don’t think Jason Mohammad would be too happy with that, the BBC have a programme called Final Score Gary, you referenced…”Lineker then cut back in, as Shearer laughed: “Or Final Score.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRichards added: “You do know you worked for the BBC for 30 years, you know that?”Lineker replied: “In my defence, Micah, at that time of day I’m sitting in the office watching football, so I’ve never seen it.Gary Lineker’s best Match of the Day moments”But actually, I think Final Score’s a much better programme. But Final Score doesn’t need a lift up from me where that other show on Sky does, probably. You work for everybody, Micah!”Final Score came up later in the show, when Lineker referenced keeping up with Barcelona’s 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund.He said: “I watched quite a lot of that in the second half because it kept coming up on the Goals Show, which is actually nearly as good as Final Score.”Shearer then joked: “You’ll be getting an email!”Lineker added: “It’s pointless them sacking me now though isn’t it really, I’ve only got a few months left anyway.”The presenter recently revealed that he turned down an offer to go on ITV’s Celebrity Big Brother.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “My agent sent it through, and then jokingly he replied, ‘Oh, yes. Gary’s fee will be £50 million’.”Lineker then added: “He did it completely as a joke, obviously. And they came back said, ‘Oh, that’s a little bit…that’s not within our budget’.”Lineker, 64, has entered his final few months hosting Match of the DayCredit: PA More

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      Gary Lineker reveals he turned DOWN huge ITV show as he reveals salary demand for reality shows

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      SPORTS pundit Gary Lineker has revealed just how much a reality TV show might need to pay to entice him to take part.Speaking on YouTube for his podcast The Rest Is Football, he discussed with Micah Richards and Alan Shearer over what he would do if he ever gave up being a pundit for good.Sports presenter Gary Lineker revealed he would ‘never’ do a reality showCredit: ReutersGary revealed he’d been approached for Celebrity Big BrotherCredit: YouTube/The Rest Is FootballThe sports TV pundit revealed his agent joked that he would only take part in a reality show for £50mCredit: YouTube/The Rest Is FootballGary Lineker revealed: “Do you know last week I got requests to go on Celebrity Big Brother.”As his fellow podcasters laughed he then revealed his agent handled the enquiry, but outlined a major fee before Lineker would agree to be involved.Lineker continued: “My agent sent it through, and then jokingly he replied, ‘Oh, yes. Gary’s fee will be £50 million’.”He then added: “He did it completely as a joke, obviously. And they came back said, ‘Oh, that’s a little bit…that’s not within our budget’.”More on Gary LinekerAs Micah and Alan laughed along they joked that Gary would be getting more requests for shows now he’s stepping back from Match Of The Day, but he revealed a stint on a reality show is not likely.Gary explained: “I can tell you now, don’t bother asking.”Last month Gary revealed he will stop presenting Match of the Day at the end of this season.Yet as part of an 18-month contract extension – the 63-year-old will stay on to anchor the Corporation’s 2025/26 FA Cup coverage and the next World Cup.Most read in CelebrityLineker, who will take a substantial pay cut, will have hosted MOTD for 25 years when he steps down from the show.Gary Lineker will stop presenting Match of the Day the end of this season at and will quit Beeb by 2027The former England striker is understood to be on new terms, which will see his salary reduced significantly. He currently receives £1.35m, making him the highest paid broadcaster at the BBC.In November, a BBC source said: “Gary absolutely adores Match of the Day, and has been incredibly happy at the BBC.“But he has been at the helm since 1999, and by the time he leaves, he will have been at the Beeb for 30 years.“He wants to leave on a high – and if England win the World Cup, it doesn’t get much higher.“It’s one of the industry’s worst kept secrets that the new BBC Director of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski and Gary aren’t exactly close. The former is very keen to make his mark by bringing in new faces, and slashing wage bills.“Negotiations have been ongoing for the past six weeks and finally a deal has been struck that everyone is pleased with. “Gary is incredibly popular with both players and viewers, and news of his departure will send shockwaves around the Corporation. In other words, no-one is immune from change.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Gary will be 65 when he leaves; frankly, he isn’t getting younger and just feels the time is right to focus solely on his mogul interests outside the BBC – namely his Goalhanger podcasting business which is becoming huge Stateside.”BBC execs, meanwhile, will be giving Match of the Day a reboot to keep it fresh in the wake of such a huge departure.”Gary is set to leave BBC’s Match Of The Day in 2026Credit: BBCThe sports pundit will continue to present FA Cup and 2026 World Cup coverageCredit: PA More

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

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

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      Awkward moment new BBC MOTD favourite upsets David Moyes with comment live on TV as he gives deadpan response

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      MARK CHAPMAN put his foot in his mouth in an awkward exchange with David Moyes on Match of the Day 2.Chapman, 51, hilariously made an accidental jibe at David Moyes’ European success with West Ham.Mark Chapman talked himself into an awkward situation on Match of the Day 2 when discussing the Uefa Conference LeagueCredit: BBCDavid Moyes questioned Chapman for suggesting the Conference League isn’t up to scratchCredit: BBCChapman and Alan Shearer burst out laughing at the deadpan responseCredit: BBCChapman apologised to Moyes for the inadvertent jibeCredit: BBCMoyes joined Chapman and Alan Shearer on the BBC highlights show as a pundit to talk through the weekend’s action.And when discussing Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Aston Villa, Chapman delved into the Blues’ ability to rotate their squad due to their participation in the Uefa Conference League instead of the Champions League or Europa League.Seemingly hinting that the Conference League’s subpar opposition allows Chelsea to rotate heavily in Europe, Chapman said: “If you look at the changes that he [Enzo Maresca] can make in Europe.”And look they’re in the Conference League so they can…”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBefore the experienced broadcaster could even finish his sentence he was hilariously interrupted by Moyes who asked: “What’s up with the Conference League?”The quick-witted interjection had both Chapman and Shearer in fits of laughter with Moyes hinting at his spectacular success in the Conference League with West Ham.Chapman jokingly said: “That was a bit awkward!”.Moyes led West Ham to Conference League success in 2023, beating Fiorentina in the final in Prague and becoming the first English team to lift the relatively new trophy.Most read in FootballDavid Moyes led West Ham to Conference League glory in 2023Credit: Richard Pelham / The SunFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIt was the first major trophy won by West Ham in 43 years and the crowing jewel of Moyes’ long and illustrious career as a manager.Fans enjoyed Moyes’ tongue-in-cheek reaction to Chapman’s awkward moment.Watch Alan Shearer’s cheeky pitch to be new Match of the Day host in first show since Gary Lineker exit confirmedOn social media, one fan wrote: “Great moment!”While another added: “The laugh from Moyes and deadpan expression. Brilliant.”Chapman is currently favourite to replace Gary Lineker as host of Match of the Day at the end of the season.Lineker is set to step down from his role as the highlight show’s host after over 25 years in the hotseat.And Chapman, who has hosted MOTD2 since 2013, is strong favourite to be handed the role by the BBC.However, The Sun exclusively revealed last month that the Beeb are hoping to share the role between two presenters – an idea that Chapman isn’t keen on.In fact, Chapman has flatly refused a Match of the Day job share.Mark Chapman is favourite to be named as the new host of Match of the DayCredit: GettyUltimate sports presenters rich listTV sports presenters make a mint.The biggest and best are signed up on yearly deals with the likes of the BBC, ITV and Sky for your viewing pleasure.Laura Woods is dominating the media landscape at the moment, leading TNT Sports’ coverage and ITV’s.Alex Scott and Jermaine Jenas are two of the fresher faces for the BBC’s sporting output.Then, it’s the old guard of Gary Lineker and Mark Chapman who also command hefty fees for their Match of the Day programmes.SunSport has taken a look at how those big names rank and compiled a list of the top 10 highest earning stars that grace our TV screens.With number one worth a whopping £29.4million more than number 10!Read the story and see the full list here. More

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      Cole Palmer scowls at reporter’s question as fans hail Chelsea star’s interviews as ‘one of a kind’

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      COLE PALMER left fans in hysterics by scowling and shutting down a reporter when asked about Chelsea’s title aspirations.The 22-year-old scored and got an assist in their 3-0 win over Aston Villa yesterday.Cole Palmer looked unimpressed when asked about Chelsea’s title hopesCredit: BBCPalmer bluntly shut down the questionsCredit: BBCHe scored Chelsea’s third in the win over Aston VillaCredit: GettyAfter his man of the match display, Palmer was asked by Match of the Day commentator Mark Scott what part of the performance he was most pleased about.In typical fashion, he bluntly replied: “Three points.”The victory saw Chelsea go level with Arsenal in the table on 25 points after seven wins, four draws and two losses.And the London rivals’ goal difference is also identical, having both scored 26 goals and conceded 14.READ MORE ON CHELSEAThey are nine points off leaders Liverpool, which led to Palmer being asked why Chelsea cannot be seen as title contenders.He gave the BBC reporter a dirty look and said: “Nah, it is too early, man.”Fans found it hilarious, with one saying: “Palmer is one of a kind.”Another added: “The face he made lol. Love him. Real non PR guy.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA third commented: “Palmer’s interviews are a thing of beauty.”More reacted: “A man of few words. Love the kid.”Chelsea Cole Palmer reveals his favourite post-match meal which includes ‘chippy chips’ The same question was put to Blues boss Enzo Maresca, who seemed far happier to expand on why they do not see themselves in the running.He said: “We are not ready and the reason why is because there are teams like Man City, Liverpool and Arsenal that for different things are better than us.”Chelsea ratings vs Aston Villa as Cole Palmer adds to his ridiculous Stamford Bridge tallyCHELSEA moved to joint-second in the Premier League table with a resounding 3-0 win over Aston Villa.Goals from Nicolas Jackson, Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer saw the Blues make light work of their opponents at Stamford Bridge.Here, SunSport’s Katherine Walsh delivers her Chelsea player ratings…Robert Sanchez – 6Kept Ollie Watkins at bay on two occasions in the first-half, which was welcome after questions were raised over his place as first-choice goalkeeper.Moises Caicedo – 6Rare start from right-back in the absence of Reece James, but was solid in an inverted role as Chelsea grew in confidence.Steps into challenges nicely at just the right time, and is becoming a dependable figure for the Blues.Wesley Fofana – 4Some uncomfortable moments for Fofana amid his battles with Watkins.Was subbed off inside the hour mark after seemingly twisting his ankle as he treaded on the ball while tussling the Villa frontman.Levi Colwill – 6Would have been lower before he cleared Ross Barkley’s blistering header over the bar from a corner.Went down easy when defending Watkins in the second-half, could’ve cost his side some chances against better opposition.Marc Cucurella – 7Chelsea’s most creative full-back won the ball high-up to set up Jackon’s opener.Put the defensive work in aswell after having Jaden Philogene’s number the whole game.Romeo Lavia – 6Another impressive midfield performance from the Belgian, who shows prowess beyond his years on and off the ball.Seems the perfect pivot partner for Fernandez when Caicedo isn’t in the middle, and people need to start talking about how Manchester City let him go for peanuts.Enzo Fernandez (c) – 7His best goal in a Chelsea shirt this calender year with a slick volley past his Argentina team-mate Emi Martinez from the edge of the box.The Chelsea captain set himself up after playing a lovely one-two with Palmer and was involved creatively throughout.Pedro Neto – 6Didn’t get on the ball enough compared to his fellow forward team-mates.Lovely drop of the shoulder after Fofana was subbed off but a pretty quiet afternoon in comparison to Chelsea’s other attackers.Cole Palmer – 8Out of form? Nonsense. He’d been on the edges of it at times. But made one and scored an absolute screamer. You cannot keep a good man down.Only Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has netted 30 goals at Stamford Bridge in fewer games.Linked up well with Sancho and Fernandez and assisted the Argentine’s volley. The England star was a constant threat while charging at Robin Olsen’s goal in the second-half.Jadon Sancho – 6Full of confidence and a constant threat in a high wing-back role this afternoon.Could’ve won his side a penalty but stayed on his feet inside 30 minutes.Still not quite there in the final third, though, as he was replaced by Madueke midway through the second half.Nicolas Jackson – 7A poacher’s finish opened the scoring inside seven minutes – his eighth in the league this season.A wonderful goal saw him get his foot round to volley in off the post with his weaker peg after Cucurella’s cross awkwardly deflected off Matty Cash.Tangled with Martinez, who was replaced by Olsen at half-time.SUBSBenoit Badiashile (60’ for Fofana) – 6Nothing too dramatic from the towering centre-back after replacing the injured Fofana.Noni Madueke (70’ for Sancho) – 4Booked for simulation in the final five minutes. Unnecessary.Christopher Nkunku (70′ for Jackson) – 5Great cross for what should’ve been Chelsea’s third as Palmer and Madueke got mixed up in the 77th minute.Joao Felix – (86′ for Palmer) – 3Missed a sitter at the death after Madueke’s shot was kept out. Also booked within three minutes of coming on for a lunge on Tielemans. More

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      Jeff Stelling vows to go one step further than Gary Lineker in his pants if his beloved Hartlepool get to Championship

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      JEFF STELLING has promised go one step further than Gary Lineker if his beloved Hartlepool get to the Championship.The departing host memorably presented Match of the Day in his PANTS after Leicester won the Prem in 2015-2016.Jeff Stelling is ready to outshine Gary Linker live on air but under one conditionStelling promised to strip down like Lineker if Hartlepool climb the EFLLineker vowed to present MOTD in his underwear if Leicester won the PremCredit: GettyBut with Hartlepool languishing down in 13th in the National League, fans will likely have to wait a long time for Stelling to mimic Lineker.Life-long Hartlepool fan and club president Stelling hasn’t stopped dreaming about the Pools’ ascent back into the EFL after suffering relegation from League Two in 2023.But stranger things have happened – remember Leicester winning the Premier League title at 5000-1 eight seasons ago?And all after narrowly escaping relegation 12 months earlier.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSFew believed Leicester could win a Prem before Liverpool and Lineker promised to do MOTD in his undies if his hometown club got over the line.The Foxes ended up winning the league that year by a whopping 10 points ahead of their closest title rivals, Arsenal.And Lineker made headlines when he was forced to grab his white briefs and present MOTD in front of millions.But that is nothing compared to the lengths talkSPORT host Stelling is prepared to go.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAsked whether he would emulate Lineker: “I would host talkSPORT breakfast without my pants in order for Hartlepool to get into the Championship.“League Two would be fine, never mind the Championship.”Mark Chapman refuses Match of the Day job share as Gary Lineker quits after 25 yearsMeanwhile, Lineker will leave MOTD at the end of the season after 25 years in the hot seat.The 63-year-old will also quit the BBC after anchoring the Corporation’s 2025/26 FA Cup coverage and the next World Cup.And just two weeks later Lineker’s newest project has been unveiled as he prepares to get involved in Baller League UK.The football tournament was launched in Germany earlier this year and includes the likes of Mats Hummels and Lukasz Podolski.Who could replace Gary Lineker as MOTD host?GARY LINEKER dropped the shock news that he is QUITTING Match of the Day.The popular presenter, 63, took over hosting duties on the flagship BBC programme from Des Lynam in 1999.But after more than 25 years in the studio hotseat, he has called time on his MOTD gig.But as part of a huge shake-up, the BBC is considering rotating the presenters on a weekly basis.So with Lineker vacating the chair, new names will step into his giant boots. But who could they be?MARK CHAPMANChapman, 51, is the obvious early favourite to follow on from Lineker as MOTD presenter.He already has the gig as MOTD2 host on a Sunday night plus landed the presenting job for the new BBC Champions League highlights show.ALEX SCOTTScott gets the nod from the Beeb bosses when Lineker is away.The former right-back, 40, is used to presenting the Saturday night show as well as live match coverage – plus ticks the box as a former England international.GABBY LOGANLike Scott, Logan, 51, is one of the understudies to step in when Lineker is not available.She has done most gigs since joining the BBC in 2007, including Olympics, Sports Personality of the Year and Final Score.MICAH RICHARDSLineker’s top pick to replace him is exuberant former Man City defender Richards.The departing host told his close pal, 36, on their Stick to Football podcast: “I’d love to see you take over Micah, I think you’d be brilliant in the chair.”JASON MOHAMMADMohammad could earn the “promotion” from Final Score to Match of the Day.The 51-year-old Welshman – who took over from Logan in 2013 – is one of the BBC’s top earners already and is more senior than fellow Final Score and BBC Sport broadcaster Kelly Somers, who could in theory become the main live host for the afternoon slot.JEFF STELLINGHe couldn’t, could he? While Lineker has been the face of Saturday night TV for football fans for years, the face of the afternoons was Stelling in his role as Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday presenter.He would bring plenty of on-screen charisma, wit and legendary TV expertise – but at nearly 70 and currently with talkSPORT, the Hartlepool fan would not be a cheap or long-term appointment. More

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

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      ALAN SHEARER made a cheeky pitch to become the new host of Match of the Day.Last night’s edition of the Premier League highlights show was the first since the BBC confirmed Gary Lineker would leave at the end of the season.Alan Shearer made a hilarious pitch to take over as Motd’s new hostCredit: X @BBCMOTDGary Lineker is stepping down at the end of the seasonCredit: X @BBCMOTDThe 63-year-old was in the hotseat yesterday, with Shearer and Ashley Williams the pundits.But Lineker did not introduce the show as usual – instead giving the honours to the Newcastle legend as the pair performed a hilarious joke.Looking down the lens of the camera like a presenter, Shearer quipped: “All good things must come to an end.”Lineker then replied: “Yes, Alan. Lee Carsley’s England reign is over.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It’s back to business in the Premier League. Seven games on the way. Alan Shearer and Ashley Williams join us.”Lineker then whispered under his breath: “Al ain’t getting the job, is he?”Shearer has been a pundit on Match of the Day since 2006 but is not thought to be in the running to take his pal’s job after his 26 years at the helm.Though he would be a popular choice as a study by Ipsos revealed 22 per cent of viewers want him as the new host.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut experienced presenter Mark Chapman is currently the favourite.Alex Scott, Kelly Cates and Kelly Somers are also in the running.Gary Lineker’s best Match of the Day momentsLineker will cover FA Cup and World Cup games with the Beeb until 2026 and he will then officially leave.Who could replace Gary Lineker as MOTD host?GARY LINEKER dropped the shock news that he is QUITTING Match of the Day.The popular presenter, 63, took over hosting duties on the flagship BBC programme from Des Lynam in 1999.But after more than 25 years in the studio hotseat, he has called time on his MOTD gig.But as part of a huge shake-up, the BBC is considering rotating the presenters on a weekly basis.So with Lineker vacating the chair, new names will step into his giant boots. But who could they be?MARK CHAPMANChapman, 51, is the obvious early favourite to follow on from Lineker as MOTD presenter.He already has the gig as MOTD2 host on a Sunday night plus landed the presenting job for the new BBC Champions League highlights show.ALEX SCOTTScott gets the nod from the Beeb bosses when Lineker is away.The former right-back, 40, is used to presenting the Saturday night show as well as live match coverage – plus ticks the box as a former England international.GABBY LOGANLike Scott, Logan, 51, is one of the understudies to step in when Lineker is not available.She has done most gigs since joining the BBC in 2007, including Olympics, Sports Personality of the Year and Final Score.MICAH RICHARDSLineker’s top pick to replace him is exuberant former Man City defender Richards.The departing host told his close pal, 36, on their Stick to Football podcast: “I’d love to see you take over Micah, I think you’d be brilliant in the chair.”JASON MOHAMMADMohammad could earn the “promotion” from Final Score to Match of the Day.The 51-year-old Welshman – who took over from Logan in 2013 – is one of the BBC’s top earners already and is more senior than fellow Final Score and BBC Sport broadcaster Kelly Somers, who could in theory become the main live host for the afternoon slot.JEFF STELLINGHe couldn’t, could he? While Lineker has been the face of Saturday night TV for football fans for years, the face of the afternoons was Stelling in his role as Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday presenter.He would bring plenty of on-screen charisma, wit and legendary TV expertise – but at nearly 70 and currently with talkSPORT, the Hartlepool fan would not be a cheap or long-term appointment. More