Following Gary Lineker’s removal from Match of the Day, Premier League players are allegedly in discussions to “boycott” BBC press interviews.
After making remarks on social media about the government’s new immigration policy on Friday night, regular host Lineker was withdrawn from the roster of tonight’s show.
Soon after, analysts Ian Wright and Alan Shearer declared they would boycott the program in support of their co-worker.
This led to the BBC stating that this evening’s program, which begins at 10.20pm on BBC One, would not feature any hosts or experts and would instead feature only highlights from today’s six Premier League games.
At lunchtime, Liverpool plays away to Bournemouth, and at 3 p.m., Everton hosts Brentford.
The Mirror claims that Premier League players are in talks to “boycott” BBC media interviews. Players are reportedly “discussing methods to demonstrate their solidarity with many who are already vocal about xenophobia and discrimination in society,” based on the report.
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Additionally, it has been reported that numerous players from all over the nation have contacted the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA). And the association has stated that it will back any players who decline to speak with the BBC before and after matches this weekend.
Later on Friday night, it was made official that the Match of the Day pundits (Ian Wright and Alan Shearer) would also not be participating in tonight’s show.
Also, BBC commentators have decided to back down from broadcasting today’s matches.
“As commentators on MOTD, we have decided to step down from tomorrow night’s broadcast.
“We are comforted that football fans who want to watch their teams should still be able to do so, as management can use World Feed commentary if they wish.”
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