Gary Lineker is the face of free-to-air football coverage in the UK.

The former Tottenham and Leicester striker has operated as the host of Match of the Day since 1999 and also anchors BBC's live games, including at both World Cups and European Championships.

Lineker has also branched out to BT in recent years, heading up their exclusive Champions League coverage the past few seasons.

But it's on the BBC where most of us have grown an attachment to the England legend. It would just feel weird not seeing him alongside the Premier League action on a Saturday night.

However, that concept could come to fruition sooner rather than expected.

As revealed by the Daily Mail, Jermaine Jenas is set to be the man to replace Lineker on Match of the Day and senior sources say the change could happen within two years.

The former Newcastle and Spurs midfielder has caught the eye of executives at the broadcaster and he is now in pole-position, ahead of the likes of Gabby Logan.

Lineker is still viewed in high regard by the BBC, but they're aware that he does have plans elsewhere, including a potential quiz show over on ITV.

Jenas has been a regular on Match of the Day for some years now and he will likely be handed more opportunities by the BBC at presenting his own shows before taking the big job.

When the change does occur, it's certainly going to feel a bit odd.

But Jenas has certainly proven himself to be a very articulate pundit down the years and it's hard to think of many better replacements for Lineker right now.

The 36-year-old already hosts MOTDx, a youth-orientated BBC2 show and has been the front man for several BBC documentaries.

Taking control of the UK's most popular football show is a different kettle of fish, but Jenas has all the tools to be a success.

Good luck to you, Jermaine!

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