Gary Lineker returned to our TV screens on Friday ahead of this weekend's El Clasico, with his first line being a typically amusing response to what has been an eventful week.
The 62-year-old, who was reinstated as presenter of Match of the Day on Monday by the BBC, appeared on ViaPlay to preview Barcelona's weekend clash against Real Madrid.
But before speaking about Sunday's game at the Camp Nou, Lineker was asked how his week had been by presenter Semra Hunter.
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He replied: "Really quiet, nothing much going on..." – a line that prompted laughter from the pair.
Lineker then added: "Yes, you could say it's been an interesting week but I'm still here, still punching.
"It was interesting and also hugely gratifying, I had an amazing amount of support from my friends and colleagues which was quite beautiful actually.
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"It was totally disproportionate, the whole thing. But we're okay, it's resolved, I'm relieved, I'm back to work tomorrow and all is well with the world."
The former Barcelona forward, who made over 100 appearances for the Catalan giants between 1986 and 1989, will not appear on Match of the Day this weekend.
Instead, he will be on location for the BBC's FA Cup quarter-final fixtures. Manchester City come up against Burnley on Saturday and Brighton will take on Grimsby Town the following day.
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Mark Chapman is reportedly set to host Match of the Day on Saturday due to Lineker's other commitments, according to the Daily Mirror.
With an international break coming up after the next round of Premier League fixtures, Lineker's next MOTD appearance is likely to be on April 1.
Last week, Lineker 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.
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“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.”
Featured Image Credit: ViaPlay/AlamyTopics: Gary Lineker, Match Of The Day, Barcelona, Real Madrid
