Next MOTD host odds: Clear favourite to replace Gary Lineker emerges after Jermaine Jenas 'sacked by BBC'

A new frontrunner has emerged to replace Gary Lineker as Match of the Day presenter following reports Jermaine Jenas has been sacked by the BBC.

Former Tottenham star Jenas was the bookmakers' favourite to replace long-standing host Lineker when he eventually steps down from the role.

But his chances of replacing the former England striker now appear to be over.

The BBC has confirmed that Jenas is no longer working as a presenter for the organisation amid claims he's been axed due to 'inappropriate behaviour'.

SPORTbible has contacted Jenas' representatives for comment.

The Sun claim Jenas was fired by the BBC and taken off air from both Match of the Day and The One Show following complaints about the former England star.

It is claimed the BBC launched an immediate internal investigation after concerns were raised about Jenas, and he was 'quietly removed from the broadcaster's official channels'.

The BBC confirmed to SPORTbible that Jenas is no longer part of its presenting team.

A BBC spokesperson said: "We can confirm that he is no longer part of our presenting line up."

The Sun claim sources close to Jenas insist he is 'not happy' with the BBC's decision.

Jenas was widely regarded as Lineker's natural successor on Match of the Day, after helping to cover this summer's Euros in Germany.

Jermaine Jenas has been axed by the BBC (Image: Getty)

But he now appears to be out of the running to replace the former Leicester star, whose contract as host of the BBC's flagship sporting show is due to expire in 2025.

Betting Expert had Jenas as the favourite to replace Lineker with odds of 3/1 prior to the news of his alleged sacking.

His departure seemingly opens the door for previous second favourite Mark Chapman, who is priced at 4/1 to replace Lineker.

Gabby Logan (7/1) and Micah Richards (7/1) are also among the favourites, along with Kelly Somers (8/1) and Alex Scott (8/1).

Lineker is yet to confirm if he will step down from the role when his contract expires next year.

"I've still got another year left, at least. We'll have to wait and see what happens," he said.