Gary Lineker’s first words as Match of the Day host are perfect ahead of BBC return

Gary Lineker’s first ever words as Match of the Day host are as relatable as ever ahead of his return to presenting duties.

The former England striker endured a turbulent week last week after his social media activities led to him having to step back from BBC’s popular football highlights show Match of the Day.

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

A 20-minute long Match of the Day programme aired on Saturday with no punditry and commentary.

Earlier on in the week, it was announced that Lineker and BBC have found a solution and the former Barcelona frontman will return to the show this weekend.

Back in 1999, Lineker replaced Des Lynam as the new face of BBC’s football coverage.

On his Match of the Day debut, Lineker said: “Hey, tell you what. Football's back,” before looking away from the camera and asking: “Any good? Have I got the job?”

Ahead of his return to the show, those first words are as relatable as ever due to what happened last week.

For many years, football fans have looked forward to their regular Saturday night fix of Match of the Day.

However, last week’s episode was not what football fans wanted due to the decision that the broadcaster made.

There was no commentary, no studio presence, no punditry and it was a largely bland football programme.

BBC TV Archive

This weekend however, all will be back in full flow as Lineker returns to host the BBC’s live coverage of Manchester City vs Burnley in the FA Cup on Saturday.

After finding a solution, Lineker tweeted: “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.”