BBC could take unusual decision in search for Gary Lineker replacement

Lineker will be stepping away from Match of the Day at the end of the season

On Monday it was widely reported that Lineker would be stepping down from his MOTD hosting duties at the end of this season, after 26 years at the helm.

The former England striker's current contract expires at the end of this season. It is understood he has agreed fresh terms with the BBC which will see him continue to be involved in the broadcaster's other football coverage up to the 2026 World Cup.

Lineker and the BBC are expected to officially confirm the news on Tuesday.

Since the story emerged though, thoughts have immediately turned to who will replace the 63-year-old as host of Match of the Day.

The Sun reports that the BBC could take an unorthodox approach to replacing Lineker, by using a rotating group of hosts for the flagship football highlights show.

The publication named Match of the Day 2 host Mark Chapman as one of the potential group, but did not share any other names.

The rotating series of presenters would be part of the BBC's plans to "reboot" the show and "keep it fresh" in the wake of Lineker's departure, a source said.

Other names who have been touted as replacements for Lineker include Alex Scott, Gabby Logan, Micah Richards and Kelly Cates.

There's been uncertainty over Lineker's future on Match of the Day for a number of months now. The Daily Mail reports that the decision for Lineker and the BBC to go their separate ways comes after six weeks of contract negotiations.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast earlier this year about his MOTD future earlier this year, Lineker said: "It depends how long they want me, I suppose. I love doing it at the moment; I've still got another year left, at least. So we'll have to wait and see what happens."

"Obviously it's another change in football and television and the rights of the Premier League and stuff like that. All of these things will play a part. But I just feel it's been an absolute privilege to have presented it for 25 years now. I must be getting old!"