Gary Lineker was back in familiar territory on Saturday night, returning to free-to-air television with a comedic cameo as a presenter on ITV’s World Cup coverage. The former Match of the Day host, who departed the BBC last May after 26 years, had been unveiled on Friday as a pundit for the Germany against Côte d’Ivoire Group E clash. But before the analysis began, Lineker could not resist stepping into his old role.
“Thank you very much for joining us on ITV for this one. Another day, another game, another channel,” he said, staring into the camera as if hosting the show. Laura Woods, the actual presenter, quickly cut in: “Gary, that’s my job!” Lineker replied with a smirk: “Sorry, sorry. Old habits!”
“Gary Lineker returned to free-to-air TV with a comedic cameo as a presenter on ITV's World Cup coverage.”
The light-hearted moment set the tone for an appearance that blended nostalgia with gentle ribbing. ITV took a look back at Lineker’s own World Cup history, including winning the Golden Boot in 1986 and being part of the Hand of God game against Argentina. He was also asked about Harry Kane drawing level with his record of 10 World Cup goals for England after the captain scored a double against Croatia. “I am not a violent man, but I did kick the door down! No, I was genuinely pleased for Harry,” Lineker joked. “Obviously it’s taken him an extra World Cup to do it and there is quite a lot of penalties in there, but we’ll give him that.” He added more seriously: “Harry is a way better all-round No 9 than I was. I was very much a penalty box player and Harry does it all, doesn’t he? He drops back, his passing range is fabulous and I think he is our best ever No 9.”
Lineker could not resist a dig at his old employer when the BBC’s Salford base was contrasted with ITV’s studio in New York, overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline. “I have been doing a show daily for Netflix, we’re in Times Square, but I did desperately want to come and see your set,” he said. “I think it’s absolutely amazing and I can confirm that it is real. What a backdrop.”
The cameo continued when Woods allowed the 65-year-old to take the show into the break. The match itself saw Germany win 2-1 thanks to a double from substitute Deniz Undav. Lineker’s appearance, however, remained the talking point – a reminder of a familiar face now on a different channel.