The One Show host 'in line' for Match of the Day role after Gary Lineker exit

Roman Kemp is being tipped as a surprise contender for a role on Match of the Day following Gary Lineker's confirmed departure. Earlier this week, the BBC and Lineker, who took over from Des Lynam in 1999, announced he would step down from his position at the end of the season.

Since then, there has been widespread speculation about his successor.

The show is reportedly set for a revamp to attract a younger demographic. BBC director of sport, Alex Kay-Jelski, is said to be considering Kemp for a 'digital role' in line with these changes.

A source disclosed to The Sun, via the Mirror: "Match of the Day is moving with the times and next season there will be more of a focus on digital highlights. Alex has been speaking with Roman about possibly coming on board and how it could work.

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"Roman has a massive following online and is hugely popular with a younger audience thanks to his years hosting the Breakfast Show on Capital FM. He is also a huge Arsenal fan and knows what he is talking about when it comes to football.

"It is very much in the early stages but Match of the Day is coming into a new digital age and Alex would love to have Roman front and centre."

While details of Kemp's potential involvement are yet to be ironed out, his broadcasting credentials include co-hosting The One Show with Alex Jones.

The BBC has recently secured a new highlights deal with the Premier League, allowing them to broadcast match action ahead of their usual 10.30pm slot on Saturday nights. In light of this agreement, the corporation is