Lioness Chloe Kelly has expressed her desire to see a woman take over as host of BBC One's Match of the Day when Gary Lineker steps down in 2026. The 26-year-old Manchester City star, who scored England's winning goal in the Euro 2022 final, told MailOnline that it would be 'great' for young football fans to see a female presenter in the role.
Kelly said: 'Of course, I'd love to see a woman in that role. Gary Lineker has obviously done an amazing job for 26 years...but we'll see. It's anyone's game!' TNT Sports presenter Reshmin Chowdhury has emerged as a contender, alongside MOTD2 host Mark Chapman and Kelly Somers. Gabby Logan, Alex Scott, and Roman Kemp are also reportedly in the running.
The comments come as a photograph of Kelly's last-gasp Euro 2022 winning goal celebration is unveiled at London's National Portrait Gallery. The image is part of a collection marking 30 years of National Lottery funding, which Kelly credits with helping her pursue a career in football. She recalled how funding improved grassroots facilities in her hometown of Hanwell, West London.
Kelly also met Bend it Like Beckham director Gurinder Chadha at the exhibition. The 2002 film, which Kelly watched on repeat growing up, was made possible by National Lottery funding. 'It was special to me,' Kelly said of the film, which offered representation for girls in football.
