Why Gary Lineker is missing from BBC FA Cup duty this weekend?
In pictures: Man Utd v Middlesbrough
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Gary Lineker will miss the BBC’s FA Cup coverage this weekend after testing positive for COVID-19. The former England striker took to social media to reveal that he had caught the virus and reiterated that he is fully vaccinated.
The BBC will broadcast four FA Cup fourth round ties this weekend but Lineker will not be present in the studio.
Mark Chapman will instead lead coverage of West Ham’s visit to non-league Kidderminster Harriers.
Lineker will be particularly disappointed to miss boyhood club Leicester City’s clash with rivals Nottingham Forest.
The reigning FA Cup champions will visit Forest in front of the national broadcaster’s cameras on Monday night.
JUST IN: Romelu Lukaku models new Inter Milan-esque Chelsea top amid rumours
Lineker revealed that he tested positive for Covid after flying back to the UK from South Africa.
He apologised to individuals sat near him on the flight and thanked scientists for producing a vaccine to protect against the virus.
“Long time since I got between the lines,” he tweeted alongside a picture of a positive lateral flow test result.
“Arrived back from Cape Town early this morning. Started feeling a little unwell on the flight.
Want the latest Premier League news as we publish it on Express Sport? Join our brand new Facebook group by clicking here
“Sorry to those sitting near, although I wore a mask for the entirety of the journey as didn’t eat. Hope I didn’t pass it on to anyone on BA42.”
Responding later to well-wishers, the 61-year-old continued: “Thanks for all the well wishes. You’re a lovely lot.
“Thanks too, to the brilliant scientists for the vaccines that should mean I won’t be seriously ill and clog up our brilliant NHS.
“Gutted to miss our live @BBCSport FA Cup 4th round ties though. Always the most fun.”
DON’T MISS…
Roy Keane to Sunderland may be in doubt as rival contender emerges
Man Utd labelled ‘a shambles club’ in brutal putdown over Lingard saga
Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech savaged as Morocco boss rules out return
The tweet prompted jibes from his BBC colleagues. Alan Shearer, who often appears as a pundit on the broadcaster’s FA Cup coverage, joked: “No FA cup jibe for once then. Get well soon.”
Lineker often quips about Shearer’s failure to win the FA Cup during his career, which included spells with Southampton, Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle.
Lineker joked back: “Even though we’re covering Forest v Leicester there’s no way I would have mentioned beating @NFFC in the FA Cup Final in 1991.”
Fellow regular BBC guest Micah Richards backed Lineker by poking fun at Shearer.
The former Manchester City defender implied that he will mock Shearer for his lack of silverware. He responded to the 51-year-old’s tweet with a GIF and the words: “You sure!”
Source: Read Full Article