Gary Lineker made a surprise return to BBC Sport as he gatecrashed the broadcaster's reaction to England's 2-1 World Cup win over Norway, with Wayne Rooney quick with a cheeky quip.
Cameo During Live Analysis
The former Three Lions skipper burst in and hijacked Micah Richards' airtime following Jude Bellingham's match-winning brace. BBC Sport live-streamed their analysis of Thomas Tuchel's side securing their place in the World Cup semi-final after ITV held the broadcasting rights for the quarter-final clash.
Wayne Rooney was joined by Ellen White to provide commentary on the extra-time triumph, with Richards appearing remotely from New York. It was halfway through the programme when Lineker barged in and disrupted proceedings.
Penalty Debate Interrupted
The panel were debating England's penalty after it was reversed by referee Clement Turpin, who ruled that Djed Spence had initiated contact with Oscar Bobb before hitting the deck. Richards was sharing his thoughts on the French official's decision to overturn his on-field call when Lineker, wearing an England shirt, leapt into frame.
"Definitely a penalty," Lineker declared, with the former Manchester City defender looking astonished to see his segment hijacked. "Come on England. Nice to see you all there."
Rooney's Jibe
The 65-year-old made a swift departure while Rooney fired a parting remark, joking: "Kit looks a bit snug there, Gaz." The discussion swiftly returned to dissecting England's performance as the light-hearted moment gave way to more serious analysis once again.
Lineker departed the broadcaster at the conclusion of the 2024-25 Premier League season, relinquishing his duties as Match of the Day presenter. The former England striker has since taken on a presenting role for The Rest is Football's Netflix series, following his podcast's move into the mainstream for this summer's tournament.
Previous ITV Appearance
He made a brief appearance on ITV to promote his forthcoming reality show, during which he couldn't resist a cheeky jibe at his former employers, playfully attempting to take over presenting duties before being swiftly put in his place by Laura Woods. "Sorry, sorry. Old habits," he said.
Lineker and Richards regularly collaborate on the podcast, and the pair are expected to dissect England's victory on their programme, which is due to air at 6am on Sunday morning, broadcasting live from New York.
Semi-Final Ahead
England will play Argentina in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday after Bellingham's heroics. The defending champions, like the Three Lions, needed extra-time to move to within 90 minutes of the showpiece. Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring in a 3-1 win.
