Jermaine Jenas' joke to Gary Lineker about taking his Match of the Day job has aged badly

Jermaine Jenas once told he would not be coming for his presenter role "for now". But sacked presenter Jenas' joke has aged poorly as Lineker is now set to step down, with not among the list of potential replacements.

Former midfielder Jenas was on The One Show, as well as his other BBC obligations, in August. The 41-year-old's contract was terminated following allegations over his behaviour towards female co-workers, with Jenas admitting to sending "inappropriate messages" at the Jenas and admitted he considered it "cheating" even though "nothing physical ever happened."

He has maintained a low profile since the scandal, with news emerging this week that from his usual role on the broadcaster's flagship programme at the end of this Premier League season, after 25-years at the helm.

Several obvious names have been mentioned as Lineker's successor, such as Match of the Day 2 host Mark Chapman, Football Focus' Alex Scott and Gabby Logan. But, for the aforementioned reasons, Jenas has not been linked to the role despite once having been the frontrunner.

With speculation rampant over the past 18 months over Lineker's future, ex-England international Jenas was well aware of rumours that he was a leading candidate for the Match of the Day job, having had experience presenting Match of the Day 2, spin-off MOTDx and his regular role on The One Show. And he even made a joke about it while appearing as a pundit on the programme in November 2023.

Jenas asked for Lineker's opinion regarding a potential penalty incident in Everton's 3-2 win over Crystal Palace last year, saying: "I always like the striker's opinion," to which Lineker quipped: "You want this job?"

That prompted the former Tottenham star to reply: "No, no, I'm alright thanks. For now." Lineker glanced back at Jenas, saying: "Later," as they both grinned and moved on to the next segment of the show.

Speaking in April 2024, Jenas revealed to that he would jump at the chance if it presented itself. He said: "I would obviously be up for it... it's Match of the Day and it would be a great opportunity.

"I haven't thought that far ahead but I hosted Match of the Day 2 on Sunday night, which was the first one I've ever done. I loved it, it felt comfortable to me, it felt normal, and I love doing The One Show as well.

"Gary has got plenty of legs in him and I don't see him going anywhere soon but when that day comes which it will do, I would like to think that I am at least thought about to fill the position. If that is the case then I would obviously jump at it."

It is reported that Lineker was not offered a new contract to head the show beyond this season. However, he will continue to present the BBC's 2025/26 FA Cup coverage and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.