Next Match Of The Day Presenter Odds. Who Will Replace Gary Lineker?

As Gary Lineker steps down from his role as the presenter of Match of the Day (MOTD) at the end of the 2023-24 Premier League season, speculation has begun around who will fill the void left by the longstanding host.

After 26 years, Lineker’s departure marks the end of an era for the BBC’s football highlights show, and the broadcaster now faces a the tough task of selecting a suitable replacement who is capable of maintaining and taking forward the UK’s most iconic football television show.

We’ll be taking a look at some of the strongest contenders who could take Lineker’s chair.

Mark Chapman

Mark Chapman is an experienced BBC presenter who is regarded as one of the favourites for the MOTD role. With close to 30 years experience in broadcasting, a good understanding of football and other sports, as well as hosting Match of the Day 2 and standing in for Lineker frequently, Chapman seems like the logical choice.

Laura Woods

As the lead presenter for TNT Sports’ Champions League coverage, Laura Woods has proven her ability to handle high-profile events and interviews with top players and managers. Although she is viewed as a rising star who would bring a fresh energy to MOTD, her contract with TNT Sports and impending maternity leave may complicate a move to the BBC.

Micah Richards

As a popular MOTD pundit, former Manchester City defender Micah Richards has proved to be a hit with the fans. His infectious humour and his engagement with Lineker and other pundits has given audiences a taste of his potential as a host. However, Richards’ lack of experience in presenting, and existing commitments to Sky Sports and CBS could impact his chances of becoming the next Match Of The Day presenter.

Gabby Logan

A seasoned sports broadcaster with nearly two decades at the BBC, Gabby Logan is a strong candidate to become the next MOTD presenter. Logan has stood in for Lineker on several occasions, showing her capability to take charge of the show competently. She is currently presents the BBC’s rugby, athletics, and Champions League coverage, making her a familiar face for sports fans. Logan’s extensive experience make her a strong choice to replace Lineker, though her current commitments could be an issue.

Alex Scott

Former England international Alex Scott has steadily built her profile at the BBC, where she presents Football Focus and leads the broadcaster’s coverage of women’s football. Despite her experience, there have been recent reports that suggest there is a potential rift between Scott and the BBC over viewing figures, which could impact her chances of presenting MOTD. However, in the early markets, Scott remains as one of the favourites.

Jason Mohammad

Jason Mohammad has been a part of the BBC’s sports team for a long time, hosting Final Score and regularly filling in for Lineker and Chapman on MOTD. While Mohammad is experienced and familiar to BBC viewers, he may be considered an outside choice, with other potential hosts seen as better fits for Match Of The Day.

Kelly Cates

Kelly Cates is a familiar face on Sky Sports and has a strong background in football broadcasting. The daughter of Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish, Cates has never worked for the BBC’s football division, though her extensive CV includes radio and television presenting on major football platforms.

Steve Bower

As a BBC commentator and presenter, Steve Bower has an established record within BBC Sport, primarily through his work in football commentary. While not as high-profile as other candidates, Bower is a trusted professional with deep knowledge of the game. Bower’s lower public profile, however, may make him a less likely choice in favour of a more recognisable face.

Reshmin Chowdhury

Reshmin Chowdhury has a wealth of experience covering football for major broadcasters, including the BBC, BT Sport, and UEFA. While she is currently affiliated with TNT Sports, her experience would translate well to MOTD’s format.

Mark Goldbridge

Mark Goldbridge, a popular YouTube personality and football commentator, is known for his engaging and often humorous commentary on Manchester United. He rose to fame through his channel, The United Stand, where he offers in-depth analysis and reacts to Manchester United matches, drawing a significant following with his candid, entertaining style.

Despite being a longshot, with odds of 50/1 according to bet365, Goldbridge has gained some attention as a potential successor to Gary Lineker on Match of the Day. While established broadcasters like Mark Chapman and Alex Scott are considered front-runners, Goldbridge’s large fanbase and energetic personality might appeal to a younger audience.

Next Presenter Of Match Of The Day Odds

Several UK bookmakers have now released odds for who will be the next presenter of Match Of The Day. Gary Lineker will not be stepping down until the end of the 2024/25 season but it is likely that the BBC will lock in his replacement several months prior to that.

Next MOTD Presenter Odds
Alex Scott	7/4
Mark Chapman	9/4
Kelly Cates	8/1
Gabby Logan	7/1
David Jones	10/1
Matt Smith	12/1
Dion Dublin	20/1
Kelly Somers	10/1
Manish Bhasin	18/1
Eilidh Barbour	20/1
Kate Abdo	25/1
Jason Mohammed	20/1
Colin Murray	20/1
Ally McCoist	20/1
Dan Walker	22/1
Micah Richards	22/1
Laura Woods	22/1