Match of the Day's Gary Lineker 'missing' from BBC show after replacement speculation

After all the talk on him being just months away from leaving the show and who might get his job, Gary Lineker was 'missing' from the start of Saturday night's Match of the Day, being replaced by Alan Shearer in the opening seconds.

Following a lot of speculation during and after the Euros that ex England and Spurs striker Gary would either quit or be let go by the BBC, emails were leaked, apparently from channel bosses, that appeared to confirm the 63-year-old wouldn't be renewing his contract, before it was confirmed he will definitely quit at the end of the season earlier this month.

Amid all the speculation, highly paid presenter Gary has made a few not so subtle quips about his Match of the Day future and producers got in on the act on Saturday, by 'replacing' him with Newcastle United legend Alan, for the first MOTD since the international week. After the programme's famous theme tune aired during the opening credits, it was Alan who appeared on screen first, as he looked down the lens and remarked: "all good things must come to an end."

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However, Big Al's tenure as Match of the Day presenter was a very brief one, as Gary did then appear to add: "Yes, Alan...Lee Carlsley's England reign is over, it's back to business in the Premier League," as a smirk spread across his face.

A whole host of stars have been linked to Gary's Match of the Day job, with early favourite and MOTD2 host Mark Chapman appearing 'unwilling' to share the role, as some bookies made ex England player turned One Show presenter Alex Scott as the favourite to replace him and Roman Kemp saw his name come into the frame.