Arguments erupted when the BBC named Kelly Cates as one of three presenters to replace Gary Lineker on Match of the Day, with fans scrambling to watch the popular sports show. He has accused BBC executives of “ruining it”.
But others have jumped to the defense of the current Sky Sports presenter, claiming Cates is “perfect” for the new job.
Today, MailOnline reveals that the acclaimed broadcaster, who is the daughter of Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish, will join fellow broadcasters Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan, who will share the hosting duties for Match of the Day and Match of the Day 2.
However, Cates’ appointment has divided opinion among football fans who took to social media to voice their opinions.
On X (formerly Twitter), Chris Jones said, “So much for MOTOD, it’s total woke nonsense.”
Other X users claimed the BBC had “ruined” the show.
One person wrote: “They (BBC) have ruined it.” The best part of MOTD was the banter between Gary and Alan. [Shearer] and ian [Wright].
“Where did it go now? You should have gone with Mika. [Richards]Germaine [Jenas] And Alan or Ian. ”
Kelly Cates will leave Sky to join Match of the Day as one of its presenters next season
Cates will share the role with fellow presenters Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan (pictured). The trio will take over as hosts after Lineker leaves the show next May.
Cates’ appointment divided opinion among football fans who took to social media to voice their opinions.
A man with the username Christian claimed it was “ridiculous” for Cates to leave his job at Sky Sports to present Match of the Day “once every three weeks”.
Another X user described the new presenter as “so-so”, adding: “Get a new fixed presenter with a little more personality.”
However, Cates has also received praise and support from many fans who have welcomed her discussed new work.
On X, one user said, “Cates and Logan know more about football than most guys, so they’re good choices.”
“Chapman is also an excellent presenter.”
Another said: “Kelly Cates is a fantastic football presenter and perfect for Match of the Day.”
One man with the username Tony wrote: “I have no problem with Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan taking over Match of the Day.” All are top-notch soccer presenters. ”
Sky bosses are understood to be deeply saddened by the 49-year-old’s death.
Cates has also received praise and support from many fans who welcomed her new job.
Gary Lineker, who has hosted MOTD since 1999, will end his 26-year term in May next year.
However, the BBC had listed her as a potential outside player to replace Lineker when he retires at the end of the season.
Cates’ smooth presentation of Sky’s Premier League coverage and previous experience at the BBC clearly gave her an advantage.
She regularly appears on Radio 5 Live, where she was used as presenter on 606, and her arrival could be seen as a major coup, especially given the increased number of live matches on Sky next season. Sho.
It turns out the three already have a close relationship and are looking forward to working together. They were similar ages and grew up over a similar period of time.
For Chapman, splitting the role will allow him to continue working in BBC radio, which he is known to be passionate about.
Those who know them say the group is humble and has no problem being in the spotlight.
Mr Lineker took over as host of the BBC’s flagship show from Des Lynam in 1999, ending a 26-year run.
The 63-year-old also plans to leave the BBC permanently after the 2026 World Cup in America, Mexico and Canada.
BBC bosses, led by new sports director Alex Kay Dzielski, want to take the program in a new direction and are considering introducing a news element to the program, as revealed by MailSport. It is understood that
The BBC said it “does not respond to speculation”. Sky Sports declined to comment.