Better than Gary Lineker? Legendary Match of the Day commentator ‘surprised’ by decision to hand iconic presenting roles to Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman & Gabby Logan

Davies, one of the finest commentators in English football, has shared his opinion on Gary Lineker being replaced by Cates, Chapman & Logan in BBC's Match of the Day programme from next season. Lineker is all set to leave his MOTD role at the end of the 2024-25 campaign after more than two decades in the post.

Speaking to SunSport, Davies said: "I'm surprised at the decision that's been made. But then I'm quite surprised at the jobs that are given to various people these days, and the need apparently to use people. They're very good broadcasters, but I'm surprised that they think it's better to have three people doing it.

"Gary himself would feel that he's done long enough. They're all very good broadcasters, and they know about the games, no doubt about that. It should go on forever. Because it's very popular, it's recorded matches, some of the matches I've been watching these days are much better recorded! I'm sure, as sure as I can be, television has changed and football has changed. For the better? I don't know, no."

Chapman assumed his duty six months before formally replacing the England legend as one of the three presenters on the highlights programme. The broadcaster was joined by fellow pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards as he sat on the hot seat on January 15 for the very first time.

Premier League action resumes on Sunday with Spurs taking on Bournemouth at home, while Chelsea face Leicester. The final match of the day will see Arsenal locking horns against Manchester United.