'We've had talks' - Gary Lineker reveals his plans for the future after he steps down as Match of the Day host

The former England international has lifted the lid on the "talks" he had with other broadcasters such as Sky but the ex-striker suggested he will step away from the limelight when he ends his tenure with the BBC after the 2026 World Cup.

The 64-year-old told FourFourTwo: "I don't think you'll see me doing much football, apart from the [Rest is Football] podcast. I'll do the odd thing, but I don't think you'll see me appearing regularly on another channel."

He added: "We've had talks with Sky at various points, but I always wanted to stick with the BBC. I could have earned a lot more, though I know I've been well paid anyway, obviously. I've had offers to go elsewhere but I just loved being with the BBC, and also how it helps everything else you do. It's not only the kudos, the audience is much bigger. More people still watch Match of the Day than probably the biggest live game on Sundays. Also, I'm quite loyal. I've had the same guy cut my hair for 40 years, the same guy training me in the gym for 30 years, the same agent since I was 18..."

Lineker is stepping down as host of Match of the Day in May, ending 26 years in the show's hot seat. He will also front coverage of next season's FA Cup and the 2026 World Cup but Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan will take over at MOTD. This really will be the end of an era.

All eyes will be on what Lineker turns his attention to after his time with the BBC concludes, and if he could be tempted back into presenting.