Odds slashed on new favourite becoming next Match of the Day host and it would be history-making

A new favourite has emerged to become the host of popular football highlights show Match of the Day (MOTD).

Current host Gary Lineker, 64, will step down from his role at the end of the 2024/25 Premier League season.

Speaking in November, the former England forward explained how “now is the right time” to move on.

"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,” he told BBC in November.

"I always thought my next thing would be the end," explained on 'The Rest is Football' in November.

"I've been thinking about it for a long time. I've done Match of Day for 25 years. It's been an absolute joy and a privilege to present such an iconic show for the BBC.

"But all things have to come to an end."

Several names have been rumoured to replace Lineker with Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates and Alex Scott, all linked with the presenter’s job.

However, a new favourite has emerged.

According to William Hill, Gabby Logan, 51, is the front-runner, returning odds of 11/8 at the time of writing.

Spokesperson for William Hill, Lee Phelps, said: “With the next Match of the Day host still up in the air, punters seem to be focusing in on Gabby Logan, with the experienced BBC presenter now the 11/8 favourite for the role, having shortened from 12/1.

“Long-time favourite Mark Chapman has drifted as a result, and he’s now out to 2/1. Sky Sports presenter Kelly Cates is marginally behind at 3/1 with Alex Scott 5/1.”

Logan has previously hosted several BBC events/shows having presented Final Score between 2009 and 2013 as well as providing coverage of BBC's Sports Personality of the Year since 2013.

Away from her BBC exploits she is regularly part of Amazon Prime's Champions League coverage to add to her impressive CV, which includes being part of commentary/broadcast teams for several international football tournaments and Olympic Games.

Next Match of the Day host odds

Gabby Logan - 11/8

Mark Champan - 2/1

Kelly Cates - 3/1

Alex Scott - 5/1

Kelly Sommers - 16/1

David Jones - 25/1

Micah Richards - 25/1

Laura Woods - 25/1

Alan Shearer - 25/1

Eilidh Barbour - 25/1