Gary Lineker breaks silence over BBC Match of the Day row

Gary Lineker has released a statement in response to the ongoing BBC Match of the Day row.

Last Friday, it was confirmed by the BBC that he will step back from presenting the popular football highlights show.

The decision came after Lineker took to social media to compare the government’s new asylum policy to Nazi Germany, which led to huge backlash.

On the back of the BBC’s decision, a host of presenters, pundits and commentators boycotted the programme in order to show solidarity with Lineker.

Now, in the wake of reports claiming he will return to the show, Lineker has released a statement.

He said on Twitter: “After a surreal few days, I’m delighted that we have navigated a way through this. I want to thank you all for the incredible support, particularly my colleagues at BBC Sport, for the remarkable show of solidarity. Football is a team game but their backing was overwhelming.

“I have been presenting sport on the BBC for almost 3 decades and am immeasurably proud to work with the best and fairest broadcaster in the world. I cannot wait to get back in the MOTD chair on Saturday.

“A final thought: however difficult the last few days have been, it simply doesn’t compare to having to flee your home from persecution or war to seek refuge in a land far away. It’s heartwarming to have seen the empathy towards their plight from so many of you.

“We remain a country of predominantly tolerant, welcoming and generous people. Thank you.”

Whilst the BBC’s director general Tim Davie said: “Gary is a valued part of the BBC and I know how much the BBC means to Gary, and I look forward to him presenting our coverage this coming weekend.”

Match of the Day will return this Saturday on BBC One.