Gary Lineker returned to free-to-air television on Saturday night and immediately tried to take over the presenting duties – before being cut off by Laura Woods. “Thank you very much for joining us on ITV for this one. Another day, another game, another channel,” Lineker began, only for Woods to interject. “Sorry, sorry. Old habits!” the former Match of the Day host replied with a grin.
Lineker, who left the BBC last May after 26 years, was announced on Friday as a pundit for ITV’s coverage of Germany against Ivory Coast in Group E of the World Cup. His appearance quickly turned into a light-hearted showcase of his new allegiance. He praised ITV’s eye-catching studio set in New York, contrasting it with the BBC’s decision not to base itself in America for the tournament. “I have been doing a show daily for Netflix, we’re Times Square but I did desperately want to come and see your set,” Lineker said. “I think it’s absolutely amazing and I can confirm that it is real. What a backdrop.”
“Gary Lineker hijacks ITV presenting role, joking 'old habits' as he returns to free-to-air TV.”
Before the match, ITV played a montage of Lineker’s own World Cup history, including his 1986 golden boot and the infamous ‘Hand of God’ game against Argentina. The 65-year-old was then asked about Harry Kane equalling his record of 10 World Cup goals for England after the current captain scored twice against Croatia on Wednesday. “I am not a violent man, but I did kick the door down! No, I was genuinely pleased for Harry. 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,” Lineker joked. “In all seriousness, Harry is a way better all-round number nine 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 number nine.”
As the coverage went to a break, Lineker handed back to Woods, praising the “fabulous job” she had done. The veteran presenter, who will host ITV game show The Box later this year, is expected to feature again during the tournament – though he may be told to stick to punditry.