BBC confirms Gary Lineker's Match of the Day replacement as he pulls out of show
Mark Chapman will step in for Gary Lineker after the Match of the Day host announced he won't be appearing on this week's show.
Lineker, who has fronted BBC's flagship programme since 1999, confirmed illness would prevent him from hosting duties on Saturday night. In a message to his 8.9million followers on social media, he said: He said: "Some good news for some: I’ve been silenced….with a rotten cold that seems to be lasting forever. Hate missing hosting @BBCMOTD but I’ll be watching".
And although his replacement hasn't been officially announced, BBC quickly changed the information for tonight's show to indicate Chapman will take over as host. Chapman, 50, has fronted Match of the Day 2 on a Sunday night for more than a decade, as well as a host of other sporting events.
He is often the first to be called upon when Lineker is absent, as he did the week after Lineker's row with the BBC saw him temporarily taken off air. Lineker was stood down after breaching impartiality guidelines, but was quickly reinstated after a backlash from high-profile colleagues in the industry.
Chapman was one of many to decide not to broadcast in the immediate aftermath, with BBC Radio 5 Live offering stripped back coverage for one weekend only.
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However, the following week's Premier League action clashed with FA Cup fixtures, meaning Lineker was instead hosting live football. Chapman made reference to his colleague's absence and the surrounding furore, kicking off the show with "and before you ask I was booked for this weeks ago!".
When it comes to long-term replacements for Lineker, Chapman is often cited as a leading contender, such is his respect at the broadcaster. But for now, Lineker has suggested he has made no definitive decision on his future, with two years remaining on his existing deal.
Mark Chapman will step in for Gary Lineker for this week's Match of the Day (BBC Match of the Day)Asked about his future, he said: "I don't know. I've still got almost two years left on my contract. So it's too early to contemplate that at the moment.
"But I mean I love doing Match of the Day, but, you know, obviously what happens with... football rights and things like that, will determine things and you know, things change."
Chapman and guests will review highlights from seven Premier League matches, including games involving Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham. it will be shown on BBC One at 10.30pm, before being repeated on Sunday morning at 7.30am.
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