Gary Lineker is not back in his usual role on Saturday night (Picture: Getty Images)
Gary Lineker’s dispute with the BBC has been resolved, but he is not back in the hosting role on Match of the Day just yet as he has another gig earlier in the day.
The former England striker is returning to the BBC this weekend, but he will be hosting coverage of the FA Cup quarter-final between Manchester City and Burnley earlier on Saturday.
The Premier League champions host the Clarets at 5.45pm and Lineker will be presenting the coverage alongside Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, both of whom refused to appear on the BBC last week in solidarity with their colleague.
Mark Chapman will be hosting Match of the Day on Saturday night, with five Premier League matches played earlier in the day.
Lineker was removed from Match of the Day last weekend after criticism of government policy on Twitter and the BBC’s sport coverage was thrown into chaos as pundits, commentators and other presenters refused to work in solidarity.
The matter was resolved, with the BBC relenting and the host will return to work on Saturday and be able to air his views.
Tweeting on Monday, Lineker wrote: ‘After a surreal few days, I’m delighted that we have navigated a way through this.
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‘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.
‘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.’
Speaking to La Liga TV on Friday about the past few days, Lineker said: ‘Really quiet! Nothing much going on. 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.”
‘It was totally disproportionate the whole thing but we’re OK. It’s resolved, I’m relieved, I’m back to work tomorrow and all is well with the world.’
MORE : Ian Wright calls BBC a ‘hot mess’ over Gary Lineker drama
MORE : Pressure back on BBC chief to resign after Gary Lineker ‘capitulation’
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Mark Chapman hosts Match of the Day this weekend.
