Gary Lineker has hit back at criticism of his decision to make a controversial World Cup appearance for ITV, insisting his motives were 'strictly professional'. The former BBC Match of the Day presenter, who left the corporation last May after 26 years, was announced on Friday as a pundit for ITV's coverage of Germany against Ivory Coast in Group E.
Lineker's ITV Debut and Light-Hearted Moment
The former Spurs striker started his appearance with a typically light-hearted moment after he began to present the show before presenter Laura Woods interjected. 'Thank you very much for joining us on ITV for this one. Another day, another game, another channel,' Lineker started before being cut off by Woods, who said: 'Gary, that's my job!'
Subtle Dig at BBC
Lineker's cameo also included a subtle dig at his former employers when he complemented ITV's set, which features the stunning Manhattan skyline in the background. The BBC, meanwhile, have attracted criticism during the tournament for basing the majority of their operation back home, with presenters and pundits hosting broadcasts from Salford's Media City.
Explaining His Defection on Podcast
On Sunday's episode of The Rest Is Football, Lineker came under pressure from co-host Micah Richards to explain his defection to ITV. 'I was making an appearance to promote my show 'The Box' which is also on ITV in September,' said the former England captain, with a rueful smile. 'And also I wanted to go and have a little look at the studio. I also wanted to go and promote our Netflix show which I got two mentions in for. It was just for purely professional reasons Micah.'
'Professional reasons?' said Richards, in response. 'Come on Gaz, you're better than that.' Lineker had the final word, however, reminding the former Manchester City defender: 'Says the person who works for pretty much every TV channel known to man.'
Behind the Scenes with Ian Wright
The new Netflix hit, a spin-off of Lineker's regular podcast, then cut to a segment showing Lineker going behind the scenes at ITV where he bumped into his old Match of the Day colleague, Ian Wright. 'It's so cheeky, Gary,' said Wright in conversation with his old BBC sparring partner. Lineker was then shown receiving a head massage from a member of the backstage crew. 'I never got this massage at the BBC,' he quipped.
