Pundit and former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has said he will not be appearing on Match of the Day on Saturday in “solidarity” with Gary Lineker. Co-host Gary Lineker will “step back” from presenting Match Of The Day until he and the BBC have reached an “agreed and clear position” on his use of social media, the broadcaster said.
The presenter 62, has been embroiled in a row over impartiality after comparing the language used to launch a new Government asylum policy with 1930s Germany. Tweeting in support of Gary, Ian said: "Everybody knows what Match of the Day means to me, but I’ve told the BBC I won’t be doing it tomorrow. Solidarity."
It is not yet clear who will stand in for both Gary and Ian during Saturday’s edition of Match Of The Day.
Ian's decision to also stand down from Saturday's Match Of The Day was praised by fans and fellow Twitter users. "Top man Wrighty," one person wrote. "Huge respect Ian," another said.
"Proud of you Wrighty for standing up for what you believe in," a third added. Labour MP Zara Sultana called the former Arsenal footballer a "legend".
Soccer Saturday presenter Jeff Stelling replied to Ian Wright’s message of “solidarity” with Gary Lineker, tweeting: “Well played Wrighty.”
Who might take over the Match Of The Day hot-seat?
Jermaine Jenas
The former Nottingham Forest, Newcastle and England midfielder is mainly used either as a studio guest or as a pundit alongside a commentator by BBC Sport, but Jenas has demonstrated his presenting skills on The One Show. He was also chosen by Fifa to host the draw for the 2022 World Cup finals in Qatar.
Alex Scott
Scott, 38, enjoyed a successful playing career with Arsenal and England before moving into broadcasting after her retirement in 2017. Like Jenas, she has presented The One Show and has also worked alongside Lineker in the past as a presenter of the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year programme. She was also a contestant on one of the corporation’s flagship entertainment shows, Strictly Come Dancing, in 2019.
Gabby Logan
Former gymnast Logan has presented MOTD in Lineker’s absence on many occasions in the past, while she also fronted the BBC’s coverage as the Lionesses stormed to glory in last year’s Women’s Euro. She has also been involved in the BBC’s coverage of Six Nations rugby, and the last four summer Olympic Games.
Mark Chapman
“Chappers” is the regular presenter of Match Of The Day 2, which shows highlights of Premier League action on Sunday evenings. He is also a key part of the BBC’s coverage of football on radio, presenting Sports Report on 5 Live and the Monday Night Club on the same channel.
