Alan Shearer has confirmed he will appear on BBC's Match of the Day only once a month, revealing his desire to watch more Newcastle United games as the reason behind his reduced schedule. The former England striker made the announcement after the BBC confirmed his involvement in their line-up for the 2026/27 season.
Shearer prioritises Newcastle matches
Shearer, who recently appeared alongside Wayne Rooney for the first show of the year, told Daily Mail Sport: "I said to them a while back that I would like some of my weekends back on a Saturday." He added: "It'll be about one a month. I'll be going to more Newcastle games. I love doing the co-comms. When the FA Cup starts in January, there's loads of co-comms."
The Match of the Day panel has seen significant changes in recent years, with Gary Lineker replaced as presenter by Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan on a rotating basis. New analysts including Ashley Young, Robbie Keane, Toby Alderweireld and Thomas Frank have been added, while Martin Keown, Dion Dublin, Shay Given, Stephen Warnock, Nedum Onuoha and Theo Walcott were absent from the confirmed roster.
Impact on BBC coverage
It is understood that those omitted from the roster will still contribute to the BBC's Match of the Day coverage throughout the campaign. Shearer's reduced schedule has likely played a role in that, with the Newcastle United icon planning more trips to St James' Park.
The Magpies opened their Premier League campaign with a 2-2 draw against Liverpool. New boss Matthias Jaissle secured his first victory on Wednesday evening, overcoming Championship side West Brom 3-2 in the Carabao Cup.
Shearer's season outlook
Shearer also shared his thoughts on the forthcoming season following a turbulent summer transfer window which saw three of their standout players depart. He said: "Plenty of optimism at Newcastle after a long summer. It needed a reset. We mustn't forget all those players Newcastle sold, wanted to go, didn't want to be there and didn't have great seasons last season because Newcastle finished 12th."
He added: "It had to be a reset and it's going to take a lot of patience at times, albeit hoping for one or two in before the end of the transfer window, then plenty to be optimistic about after the weekend. I don't expect us to get into European football this year. If we do, great, it'll be a great bonus but I don't expect that."
