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12th July 2024
04:04pm BST
BBC staff are reportedly unhappy with Gary Lineker for his criticism of Gareth Southgate and his performance as England manager during the Euros.
Staff have been further irritated by the fact the the star presenter has refused to back down on his comments after Southgate led England to the final of the competition.
Lineker described England's display against Denmark a s**t on his podcast, The Rest is Football, as well as criticised the tactic abilities of the England manager.
After being questioned on these comments, Southgate described himself as "oblivious" to what Lineker had said, branding it as "not important."
Southgate sent an emotional message after England’s semi-final win over Netherlands on Wednesday saying "we all want to be loved" in acknowledgement of criticism aimed at his team.
According to the Telegraph some FA staff and those in Southgate's entourage are less understanding as Lineker continues to refuse to make up for his comments.
BBC staff that work close with Southgate have said they feel uncomfortable because of the commotion cause by the former England captain.
Although the FA have not restricted access for the BBC to players or coaching staff, it is still unknown whether Lineker will interview the England manager after the final on Sunday.
During Lineker's podcast episode with Micah Richards in the aftermath of the Denmark game the pair were filmed with a glass of red wine which has also allegedly caused embarrassment at the BBC.
Lineker's rants and criticism has coincided with a 62% increase in podcast downloads which will have translated into more revenue for the presenter.
It is not certain what the future looks like for the iconic sports presenter with it being revealed this week that Lineker will not be presenting the new BBC Champions League highlights
The 63-year-old’s existing £1.35 million-a-year contract expires next summer.
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