Gary Lineker makes feelings clear as Match of the Day replacement makes their debut

Gary Lineker has heaped praise on Kelly Somers after she took over his presenting duties on Match of the Day.

Somers stepped up as host for the iconic football highlights programme for the first time on Sunday night, filling in for Lineker. Before her debut, Lineker expressed his confidence in the 34-year-old's abilities.

The show's future seems secure following Lineker's announcement in November that he would be stepping down from his role. Following a thorough search, reports suggest that the BBC has decided to appoint not one but three presenters to succeed the legendary former Leicester and England striker.

Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan, and Kelly Cates are reportedly set to take turns in the role. While Somers may not become a regular face on MOTD, Lineker had nothing but faith in the Amazon Prime presenter's capability to lead the show.

On The Rest Is Football podcast aired on Sunday evening, Lineker, alongside Micah Richards and Alan Shearer, all commended Somers. Upon revealing that Somers would be hosting that evening, Richards remarked: "Oh, she deserves a chance. She was excellent in the Euros."

Somers' broadcasting prowess has led to her being tapped by the BBC for stellar events like the European Championships in 2021, the World Cup in 2022, and the forthcoming Euro 2024. Notably, she's secured interviews with none other than former England manager Gareth Southgate and key players from the Three Lions' squad.

The much-admired Gary Lineker shared his thoughts: "Oh, she's really good. I like Kelly a lot. And she's very much a football reporter, person, commentator, broadcaster, etc. So we wish her well, but it would have already happened. She'll do well. If you know what I mean."

Adding to the praise, Alan