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The Herald Scotland
26-05-2025
- Sport
- The Herald Scotland
Commentator Ian Crocker on 30 years as voice of Scottish football
For Ian Crocker season 2024/25 will end the same way as so many have in recent years. Stuck behind a caravan on a single carriageway of the A9 on the road north to Dingwall for a Premiership play-off. The first-ever play-off between Aberdeen and Dunfermline marked his first exposure to Scottish football. That was 30 years ago this week and Sky Sports' lead commentator marked the occasion by prepping for the first leg draw between Livingston and Ross County. The voice of Scottish football, that's his life now. 'I started doing the prep for the latest play-off last week and it said that the first one was 30 years ago,' he tells Herald Sport. 'I wondered what date that was and realised it was Aberdeen v Dunfermline, my first game in Scotland. 'Colin Davidson was at Sky then and I started doing bits and bobs for them. Grampian TV were actually covering that game live and didn't have a commentator, so Colin put me forward for it. 'That was the start of something. I never thought I'd still be talking nonsense about Scottish football three decades later.' Born in Dorset, Crocker's slow creep north began as a tannoy announced with West Ham United, the team he supports. Working in an office job for the BBC his broadcasting breakthrough came with Capital Radio in London. Working with Jonathan Pierce and Steve Wilson - now BBC Match of the Day commentators – he moved to Birmingham to cover the Midlands beat when big Ron Atkinson, Barry Fry and the late Graham Taylor were in their managerial pomp. His final, life-changing move took him to Scotland with Sky Sports and Setanta. 'I always worked for Scottish bosses through the years. A guy called Andy Melvin, who used to be at STV years ago, was deputy director of Sky Sports and he asked if I would fancy doing the SPL as it was then? 'I thought, 'why not' and by 1998 I had worked my way up the country from Dorset, where I was born, to London, to Birmingham to Glasgow. It's been fantastic and I do love it. 'We all know what it's about. The passion of the players and the fans. 'I get a bit of stick on the socials, but when I actually meet people out and about people are pretty kind in terms of remembering lines I used, which is quite humbling. 'But that's your job. If there is going to be something major happening in football you want to come up with a line that kind of covers it. And hopefully I have managed to do that a few days over the years.' Big games tee up big memories. His first calling card in Scottish football came when Martin O'Neill's first Old Firm game as Celtic manager ended in a 6-2 thrashing of Rangers, Henrik Larsson chipping a sublime effort over Stefan Klos for the goal of the game. 'I said, 'that is sensational', which it was. To this day people still come up to me and shout that at me. 'I was actually walking through Glasgow Central one day when this guy came up and started shouting 'that is sensational' at me, much to the bemusement of commuters in the station at the time. 'I had a similar one when Rangers beat Celtic in the cup final in 2002 and Peter Lovenkrands scored the winner in injury time. 'Just before Neil McCann hooked the cross in I said, 'is there going to be a twist in the tale?' 'Obviously there was - which is great. But I must have said that line a hundred times when absolutely nothing happened. It was good that it came off for once…' While Weymouth and West Ham were his first – his only – footballing loves fans in Scotland find it infuriatingly difficult to set suspicion to one side. After any game involving Celtic or Rangers his inflection, enthusiasm for goals, or description of opponents is scrutinised with a forensic intensity for evidence of latent bias. After moving the family home to the banks of Loch Lomond five years ago he has learned to live with it. Read more: 'It does make me laugh when I see one tweet saying, 'ah he's a Rangers man' beside another saying, 'no, no, he's a big Celtic man. 'A lot of the time you get people saying, 'you sounded more exciting for their goal than ours.' 'It's total and utter nonsense. Sometimes you might not go full pelt on a goal because you are wondering who scored it or it's an own goal. 'It's part of the territory, it will never change and you get used to it. 'I tell people I support my hometown of Weymouth or West Ham they look puzzled and say, 'yeah but what Scottish team do you support?…' Over the three decades, colleagues became friends. He keeps in touch by text with Davie Provan, the former Celtic and Scotland winger who provided intelligent and insightful co-commentaries until he retired to Spain. Andy Walker, the former Parkhead striker, became another pal through work – the pair working together at yesterday's game between Newcastle and Everton at St James' Park. 'Me and Davie just got on from day one. I hate commentators who crush each other, which seems to be a more common theme these days. 'After Davie, Andy Walker took over and we just became good friends. 'Both of those guys are just very good at what they do. The actual analysis is harder than the commentary because I'm just shouting out names while they have to figure out what's right and what's wrong and why a goal was disallowed.' Wary of any accusations of being a little too close to former Celtic players, he quickly name checks a legendary late Rangers figure as the manager he had the privilege of befriending and plugging for teamlines on the morning of games. 'Walter Smith used to say, 'ring me at 8.30am' and he would fill me in on injuries and why they were injured etc. 'I'd probably still be on the phone to him at 9am before saying, 'right I have to go to a game now.' 'Walter was different class to deal with and Craig Brown was the same with Scotland and Preston. 'The chats with Walter were fantastic. These days it's a bit harder to get managers to give you the team and I kind of get that with the pressure they're under these days. 'But I always felt if Walter could trust me that was a decent recommendation but, lovely a guy as he was, I wouldn't have wanted to cross him. 'I bumped into him at a game at Rangers a couple of years after he retired and I saw him in the tunnel where he said to me, 'one of the worst things about not being involved in the game anymore is that I f***** well have to listen to you on the telly now….'
Wales Online
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Gary Lineker left in tears at legends' words in emotional BBC Match of the Day farewell
Gary Lineker left in tears at legends' words in emotional BBC Match of the Day farewell Gary Lineker stepped down from Match of the Day after an emotional farewell before the show, which included a video tribute from a number of high-profile figures Gary Lineker was emotional during his last appearance on Match of the Day (Image: BBC ) Gary Lineker was moved to tears as his tenure on Match of the Day concluded with a heartfelt tribute led by Alan Shearer and Micah Richards in the studio. A comprehensive video was shown, starting with his footballing days that saw him shine at Barcelona. Post-retirement, it traced his journey as a presenter, where he had the daunting task of stepping into the shoes of the legendary Des Lynam. Several colleagues - including Richards, Shearer, Alan Hansen and Mark Lawrenson - all lauded Lineker both as a mate and a presenter. His children also chimed in, highlighting his qualities as a father as well as a broadcaster. Notable figures like Pep Guardiola and Virgil van Dijk also offered their tributes. Richards stated: "When you think of Match of the Day, you think of Gary Lineker," while Shearer asserted: "He loves it, it means the world to him," reports the Mirror. The renowned Italian singer, Andrea Bocelli, best known for the iconic song "Time to Say Goodbye", also paid homage. Article continues below Lineker's parting words were: "Let me take this opportunity to thank all the pundits I've worked with over the years, you've made my job a lot easier." He added with a touch of humour: "Rather like my football career everyone else did all the hard work and I got all the plaudits." The broadcasting career of the former England striker with the BBC has come to an abrupt end following a massive backlash over a social media post. Earlier this week, it was announced that his final appearance on Match of the Day would be on Sunday night. This marks the end of a relationship with the corporation that spans over two decades. He's been a mainstay of the Premier League highlights programme but will pass on the baton next season. Lineker began the show with a quip "it wasn't meant to end this way", which could also be interpreted as a comment on his sudden departure from the BBC. This followed the opening titles featuring highlights from Lineker's illustrious playing career. The 64-year-old has had several brushes with controversy at the BBC, surviving calls for his dismissal after criticising the Government in a social media post. His outspoken stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict ultimately led to his downfall. He posted and then removed a message on his Instagram account from the group Palestine Lobby, accompanied by an image of a rat, which led to demands for his dismissal from the Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA). BBC Director-General, Tim Davie, stated: "Gary has acknowledged the mistake he made. Accordingly, we have agreed he will step back from further presenting after this season." Lineker released a statement saying: "Football has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember – both on the pitch and in the studio. I care deeply about the game, and about the work I've done with the BBC over many years. As I've said, I would never consciously repost anything antisemitic – it goes against everything I stand for. Article continues below "However, I recognise the error and upset that I caused, and reiterate how sorry I am. Stepping back now feels like the responsible course of action."
BBC News
20-05-2025
- Sport
- BBC News
'They used the Liverpool goal as the wake up signal'
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler, speaking to BBC Match of the Day: "There have been a lot of highs and lows throughout the season. It is important you don't overreact and it is important to stay grounded and humble because there is still one game to go. But I'm really proud of the team."It's not only about playing a football game and the tactical side but it's about the mental side too. We only can be successful if you stick together and we proved that so we are very happy."The players changed the intensity on the pitch. They used the goal as the wake-up signal. Liverpool were impressive in the first 20 minutes but I was happy with the reaction."On Brajan Gruda's performance: "That was his best game, yes. It's important to understand that behind the player is a person and it's a very young person. He comes from a different country and he's away from his family. He never gave up and always tried to improve in training and showed character. He gets the reward for all his hard work."On 17-year-old Harry Howell: "It's a special player for his young age. I always give young players the chance because it's not about your age if you're good enough."Everyone knows their role, if you're a sub then you can come into the game. You always have to be ready to have an impact on it."Did you know?Brighton have come back to win three Premier League games this season when trailing at half-time, with only Fulham doing so more often (five).
Rhyl Journal
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Rhyl Journal
Gary Lineker to leave the BBC after MOTD this weekend
The former England striker, who played for Leicester City, Everton, Tottenham and Barcelona during his football career announced last November he was stepping down as host of Match of the Day (MOTD) at the end of the season. Lineker has hosted Match Of The Day since 1999, when he took over from Des Lynam. Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will replace the former England striker on MOTD from next season. Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will share hosting duties of BBC Match of the Day from next season, replacing Gary Lineker (Image: BBC) However, the 64-year-old said he would carry on working with the BBC until the end of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The BBC and Lineker, on Monday (May 19), released a joint statement saying he would step away from the broadcasting completely following MOTD this weekend. This will mean he will not be part of its 2026 World Cup coverage of FA Cup coverage next season. Lineker's departure comes after he 'apologised unreservedly' for sharing and then deleting a post on his Instagram account from the group Palestine Lobby, illustrated with a picture of a rat, which prompted calls for him to be sacked from the Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA). BBC Director-General, Tim Davie, said: 'Gary has acknowledged the mistake he made. Accordingly, we have agreed he will step back from further presenting after this season. 'Gary has been a defining voice in football coverage for the BBC for over two decades. "His passion and knowledge have shaped our sports journalism and earned him the respect of sports fans across the UK and beyond. We want to thank him for the contribution he has made." Gary Lineker said: 'Football has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember – both on the pitch and in the studio. 'I care deeply about the game, and about the work I've done with the BBC over many years. As I've said, I would never consciously repost anything antisemitic – it goes against everything I stand for. 'However, I recognise the error and upset that I caused, and reiterate how sorry I am. Stepping back now feels like the responsible course of action.' RECOMMENDED READING: Gary Linker to quit the BBC today in 'heartbreaking end' to broadcasting career Lineker was temporarily suspended from the BBC in March 2023 after an impartiality row over comments he made criticising the then Government's new asylum policy. He was also among 500 other high-profile figures who signed an open letter in February urging the BBC to rebroadcast a documentary, Gaza: How To Survive A War Zone, to BBC iPlayer. The presenter has been the BBC's highest-paid on-air talent for seven consecutive years and was estimated to have earned £1.35 million in the year 2023-24, according to the corporation's annual report published in July last year.
North Wales Chronicle
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- North Wales Chronicle
Gary Lineker to leave the BBC after MOTD this weekend
The former England striker, who played for Leicester City, Everton, Tottenham and Barcelona during his football career announced last November he was stepping down as host of Match of the Day (MOTD) at the end of the season. Lineker has hosted Match Of The Day since 1999, when he took over from Des Lynam. Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will replace the former England striker on MOTD from next season. Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will share hosting duties of BBC Match of the Day from next season, replacing Gary Lineker (Image: BBC) However, the 64-year-old said he would carry on working with the BBC until the end of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Gary Lineker to leave the BBC before 2026 World Cup The BBC and Lineker, on Monday (May 19), released a joint statement saying he would step away from the broadcasting completely following MOTD this weekend. This will mean he will not be part of its 2026 World Cup coverage of FA Cup coverage next season. Lineker's departure comes after he 'apologised unreservedly' for sharing and then deleting a post on his Instagram account from the group Palestine Lobby, illustrated with a picture of a rat, which prompted calls for him to be sacked from the Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA). BBC Director-General, Tim Davie, said: 'Gary has acknowledged the mistake he made. Accordingly, we have agreed he will step back from further presenting after this season. 'Gary has been a defining voice in football coverage for the BBC for over two decades. "His passion and knowledge have shaped our sports journalism and earned him the respect of sports fans across the UK and beyond. We want to thank him for the contribution he has made." BBC's Highest Paid Stars 2023/24 Gary Lineker said: 'Football has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember – both on the pitch and in the studio. 'I care deeply about the game, and about the work I've done with the BBC over many years. As I've said, I would never consciously repost anything antisemitic – it goes against everything I stand for. 'However, I recognise the error and upset that I caused, and reiterate how sorry I am. Stepping back now feels like the responsible course of action.' RECOMMENDED READING: Lineker was temporarily suspended from the BBC in March 2023 after an impartiality row over comments he made criticising the then Government's new asylum policy. He was also among 500 other high-profile figures who signed an open letter in February urging the BBC to rebroadcast a documentary, Gaza: How To Survive A War Zone, to BBC iPlayer. The presenter has been the BBC's highest-paid on-air talent for seven consecutive years and was estimated to have earned £1.35 million in the year 2023-24, according to the corporation's annual report published in July last year.
