Former England footballer Gary Lineker has stepped back from his role as presenter on Match of the Day while he and the BBC reach "an agreed and clear position on his use of social media" following a recent tweet which criticised newly proposed government immigration policy.
In a social media post earlier this week, the presenter had compared the language used by the government over its plan to tackle Channel crossings to "that used by Germany in the 30s".
The statement from the BBC on Friday announced the decision, claiming it considered Lineker's recent social media activity to be a "breach of our guidelines", adding he should: "keep well away from taking sides on party political issues or political controversies".
READ MORE: Gus Poyet calls on Tottenham to set Antonio Conte deadline and agrees with Richarlison
Ian Wright was touted as one option to take over from Lineker, but has since posted a statement in solidarity with Lineker, 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."
Match of the Day regular Alan Shearer has also confirmed he will not be appearing on this Saturday's show.
With that said, here's a look at the options that could be in the Match of the Day hotseat this weekend.
Mark Chapman
Mark Chapman has been a presenter for a number of football shows, which happens to include the BBC's own Match of the Day 2, which takes place on a Sunday and reviews the fewer matches that take place then. Given his long running ties with the programme strand, it could be a clear decision for him to take the place.
Jermaine Jenas
Former Tottenham star Jermaine Jenas has also been touted as a potential option by many, having featured prominently for the BBC in recent years. He has been a host for the One Show on BBC One and also plays a part in live football coverage as a co-commentator at times, as well as taking the role of draw conductor for the 2022 Qatar World Cup group stages.
Alex Scott
Ex-England international Alex Scott has also been an option stated on social media, having also featured on the BBC over the past few seasons. With her inclusion on Football Focus on a Saturday, it remained to be seen if she would feature. However, Scott appears to have dropped a hint over her decision on social media.
Taking to Twitter, the former Arsenal star tweeted a GIF of American politician Bernie Sanders that included the caption: "FYI..." and "Nah! Not me."
READ MORE:
Ian Wright makes major BBC Match of the Day decision after Gary Lineker 'stood down'
BBC confirm Gary Lineker to 'step back' from Match of the Day role
What time is Match of the Day on? Gary Lineker replacements after BBC drop bombshell statement
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
