Gary Lineker resignation statement from BBC 'leaked' as fresh doubts raised over Match of the Day future
Gary Lineker is out of contract next year
Getty
The BBC have 'drawn up a statement' preparing for Gary Lineker's departure, according to reports.
The former England international has been a part of the football highlights programme since the 1990s before taking over hosting duties in 1999.
But the 63-year-old is in the final year of his contract with the BBC with growing uncertainty on whether he will sign a new deal.
Jermaine Jenas was seen as his natural successor, but the 41-year-old was sacked following complaints about workplace conduct.
Gary Lineker is out of contract next year
GettyThat led to reports indicating the BBC were pushing forward to try and renew Lineker's current contract.
However, the Daily Mail now claim that a statement has already been drafted for Lineker's possible departure from the global broadcaster.
It's said that an 'email has been circulating' of the statement, although the authenticity of it has not been verified.
When approached for comment from the Daily Mail, the BBC replied: "We have nothing to announce, and we have not agreed next steps with regard to his contract.
"He is on contract until the end of the season."
Lineker didn't mix his words either when approached by the newspaper for comment as he refused to speak with them.
"F*** off, I won't talk to you. Go away," he said.
Lineker recently celebrated 25 years as host of the flagship programme after taking over from legendary presenter Des Lynam.
Gary Lineker has been host of Match of the Day since 1999
PAThe 1986 Ballon d'Or runner-up raised doubts on a new contract being signed as he wasn't sure whether the BBC wanted to keep him on.
He said: "I don't know... it depends how long they want me, I suppose.
"I mean, I love doing it at the moment (and) I've got another year doing it, at least.
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Gary Lineker has recently raised doubts on his future as Match of the Day host
PA"We'll have to wait and see what happens. It's an ever-changing feast, football, and television and football, and rights for the Premier League and stuff like that so all of these things will play a part.
"But I just feel that it's been a privilege to present it for 25 years now. I must be getting old."
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