Gary Lineker has told his Match of the Day successor to "be yourself".
It has recently been announced that Lineker will leave his role as the show's presenter after 25 years in the seat. He was one of the BBC's highest earners and his exit from the corporation was amicable - with his replacement yet to be named.
Lineker has told the BBC who is preference is when it comes to sourcing a replacement, but has kept that private. Currently several individuals currently under contract, who have hosting experience, have been shortlisted. Mark Chapman, Alex Scott, and Gabby Logan among them.
The 63-year-old said on his successor: "Obviously I don't know who it'll be, and I would never tell publicly my preference. I don't think that'd be the right thing to do but whoever it is, I would say be yourself."
He added on the Rest Is Football podcast: "I feel this is now the right time. I think [with] the next [highlights] contract, they're looking to do Match of the Day slightly differently, so I think it makes sense for someone else to take the helm."
The BBC has decided no to reveal its exact plans for the highlight show, stating that more information will be shared "in due course". A statement hinted at changes being made, suggesting that the programme will continue to adapt: "The show continually evolves for changing viewing habits bringing its unique and unmatched analysis and commentary across all platforms."
Lineker has the unenviable task of replacing Des Lynam but has gone on to command the role in his own right: "I had to fill the ginormous shoes of a certain Des Lynam. I would say just be yourself and enjoy it, it's a wonderful programme to be a part of. It was brilliant before I took over, and it will be brilliant after I leave."
Chapman is currently the host of Match of the Day 2, which airs on a Sunday. Scott has been the presenter of Football Focus. They are among those who could step in for Lineker once he departs as the main presenter of the flagship highlights show next summer, although he will continue to present live football until the 2026 World Cup final in the USA.
Lineker is also going to continue hosting Match of the Day Top 10 episodes and is poised to be the man conducting proccedings at the next two Sports Personality of the Year ceremonies.
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