Former Labour MP Stephen Pound has claimed Jermaine Jenas will be “the saddest man in Britain” following Gary Lineker’s announcement that he will leave Match of the Day.
The comments came during a GB News discussion about potential replacements for the long-serving presenter.
Fellow commentator Mike Parry suggested Jenas “would now be the new presenter” as the pair speculated about who might take over the flagship football programme.
Jenas was sacked by the BBC in August after he sent inappropriate messages to two colleagues on the One Show, but insisted he did nothing illegal and said they were sent to two consenting adults.
Stephen Pound said Jenas will be the ‘saddest man in Britain’
PA / GB NEWS
Lineker will step down from Match of the Day at the end of the current season, after a 25-year tenure.
The 63-year-old will continue his association with the BBC, having signed an 18-month extension to his contract.
He will remain with the broadcaster to lead their coverage of the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Lineker expressed he was “delighted” to continue his “long association with BBC Sport”, thanking “all those who made this happen”.
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Several prominent broadcasters have emerged as potential successors to the Match of the Day role.
Mark Chapman, current host of Match of the Day 2, is considered one of the obvious contenders, bringing extensive experience across BBC platforms.
Gary Lineker has hosted Match of the Day for 25 yearsPA
Alex Scott, who has presented Football Focus since 2021, is another strong candidate with experience hosting major events.
Gabby Logan, a BBC Sport veteran since 2007, has previously covered for Lineker’s occasional absences on the programme.
Sky Sports’ Kelly Cates has also been mentioned as a possible outside candidate for the position.
Mike Parry dismissed the significance of who takes over the role, stating it’s “completely irrelevant” as viewers primarily tune in to watch the football action.
Mike Parry said the person fronting Match of the Day is ‘irrelevant’
GB NEWS
However, he suggested the BBC are “star-seekers”, pointing to their willingness to maintain Lineker’s substantial salary.
The selection process has sparked fresh concerns about ageism at the BBC.
Speaking to GB News, commentator Rebecca Reid suggested that Gabby Logan may be overlooked due to the broadcaster’s “ageism” issue, particularly with women.
“I think that the BBC will be gagging for somebody young and beautiful like Alex Scott,” Reid claimed.
However, Reid added she would “love to see an older woman be given the job” as “they are given the least opportunities in television”.
