Gary Lineker reveals two Match of the Day pundits could leave as they enter final stages of BBC contracts
GARY LINEKER has revealed two much-loved pundits could be set for Match of the Day exits amid contract talks.
The 63-year-old host sees his deal with the BBC expire next year, casting doubt over his future.
Lineker is in talks over a new contract and The Sun understands it was “business as usual” this weekend despite a leaked Beeb email suggesting plans are being drawn up for his departure.
He lifted the lid on his MOTD future on the Rest Is Football podcast before revealing Alan Shearer and Micah Richards are in a similar position.
Lineker said: “I’m coming to the end of my contract in the summer, so it is natural at some point to have conversations and they have just started.
“All is OK and I believe you two are in a similar predicament.”
Richards replied: “What is more concerning is that I am 4-1 to replace you.”
Shearer joked: “That is a f***ing massive concern by the way. I’m not signing my new contract if you are a presenter by the way.”
But Richards has the support of Lineker, who said: “I would love to see you take over Micah, I think you would be brilliant in the chair.
“But with your eyesight you could not read the auto-cue.”
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Lineker is open to staying at the BBC, with The Sun exclusively revealing that he has offered to take a pay cut.
The ex-England striker could stay for £1million per year, which is £350,000 less than his current salary.
And he remains relaxed about his contract situation, saying: “There are bigger problems in the world that is for sure.”
Should Lineker quit, Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott are among the bookies favourites to fill his boots.