FOOTIE ON TV

Gary Lineker has agreed a new five-year deal with the BBC – although he’ll take a 23 per cent pay cut to remain with the corporation.

The 59-year-old will remain at the helm of Match of the Day as well as hosting the BBC’s coverage of the FA Cup alongside the Euros and World Cup tournaments. He’ll also continue to front the BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

His new deal is not exclusive meaning he’ll also be able to continue his work on BT Sport where he anchors the broadcaster’s Champions League coverage.

“I love working with the BBC and am very proud to continue to be part of their outstanding football team,” the former England striker said.

“I’m looking forward to the next five years with a European Championship and World Cup on the horizon, it’s exciting times for me and the team.”

The BBC’s head of TV sport, Philip Bernie, described Lineker as “the outstanding football presenter of his time.”

“The BBC is extremely pleased to have him leading our coverage so exceptionally for another five years,” Bernie commented.

Lineker was originally a pundit on Match of the Day before taking over as the host in 1999.