Gary Lineker has announced that Danny Murphy is the pundit he will miss working with the most after he leaves Match of the Day.
Lineker, 64, is leaving his role as the presenter of the popular football highlights program at the end of the current season.
Lineker will continue to cover FA Cup matches and the 2026 World Cup for the BBC before his retirement.
During his 26 years hosting Match of the Day, the former football star has collaborated with numerous top football analysts.
When asked by FourFourTwo magazine about his favorite pundit, Lineker joked, “I don’t like any of the others… just kidding.”
He then added, “I’ll miss Danny Murphy; he’s a truly underrated pundit, excellent analytically, and always good company.”
Lineker mentioned that Alan Shearer and Micah Richards were not his top pick because he will still be working with them on their podcast, “The Rest Is Football.”
Murphy, a former England midfielder, first joined Match of the Day as a pundit in August 2013 after retiring from professional football.
In addition to television, Murphy also has a career in radio, regularly appearing on BBC 5Live and talkSPORT.
Lineker`s successor as the host of Match of the Day was announced in January.
The BBC has announced that Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan, and Kelly Cates will share the hosting duties in rotation.
Lineker explained the reason for having three presenters: “It’s likely because it’s a significant commitment.”
He continued, “These three all have families, and if someone is expected to do it for the next decade or two, it means giving up their weekends.”
“That could be the reason, I’m not sure. I wasn’t involved in those decisions.”
“I see it as a compliment that they`ve chosen three people, though I suspect that`s not the primary reason.”
“I haven’t had a chance to speak with them yet, but I will. They are all excellent presenters and will do a fantastic job. I’ve known them all for many years.”
