News Focus
- Lineker makes surprise presenting cameo on ITV’s World Cup coverage
- Former BBC host jokes about ‘old habits’ after Laura Woods interruption
- England legend discusses Harry Kane equaling his World Cup goal record
- 65-year-old takes subtle dig at BBC’s Salford base versus ITV’s New York studio
Television viewers received a surprise on Saturday evening when Gary Lineker appeared to present ITV’s World Cup broadcast from New York. The former BBC anchor, who left Match of the Day last May after 26 years, joined the commercial station as a pundit for Germany’s Group E clash against Côte d’Ivoire.
The 65-year-old opened his segment with a playful stunt. He looked directly into the camera and began hosting the programme, thanking audiences for tuning into ITV. Laura Woods quickly interrupted with mock outrage, shouting: “Gary, that’s my job!” Lineker apologised immediately, blaming his actions on “old habits” from his lengthy BBC career.
Before the match analysis began, the network showed highlights from Lineker’s playing days. The former England striker reflected on his 1986 World Cup Golden Boot victory and the infamous “Hand of God” quarter-final against Argentina. He also addressed Harry Kane’s recent achievements, after the England captain scored twice against Croatia to match Lineker’s record of ten World Cup goals for the national side.
Lineker praised Kane’s all-round abilities, admitting the Tottenham forward surpasses his own capabilities. “Harry is a way better all-round No 9 than I was,” he confessed. “I was very much a penalty box player and Harry does it all.”
The Leicester-born analyst could not resist commenting on the production values. He complimented ITV’s Manhattan skyline backdrop across the East River, subtly contrasting it with the BBC’s Salford headquarters. “I think it’s absolutely amazing and I can confirm that it is real,” he remarked about the New York set.
Woods eventually reclaimed her presenting duties, though she allowed Lineker to direct the programme into the advertising break. The presenter praised Lineker’s contribution before the coverage returned to the pitch action.