Viewers react to ‘silent’ Match of the Day as pundit-less episode airs
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Match of the Day viewers have reacted to Saturday’s “silent” format as the pundit-less episode aired following Lineker’s suspension and notable boycotts, including from colleagues Ian Wright and Alan Shearer. Saturday’s episode of Match of the Day lasted just 20 minutes, with no presenter, pundits, commentary or interviews following the ongoing dispute between the BBC and Gary Lineker over his contract terms. Ahead of the show starting, a continuity announcer said: “Now on BBC One, we’re sorry that we’re unable to show our normal Match Of The Day including commentary tonight. One user highlighted that, amidst the backlash, the pundit-less format served as a reminder that “all you need is the theme music.” Meanwhile, Mr Lineker’s eldest son George has confirmed that his father would return to Match of the Day but added that he will “not back down on his word.” In an interview with The Sunday Mirror, George Lineker remarked: “Dad is a good man, a good human, and I’m proud of him for standing by his word.
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