Match of the Day legend, 87, details 'surprise' at choice of Gary Lineker's replacements
Match of the Day is set to see a transformation next season as Gary Lineker steps down from his position and will be replaced by Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan
Commentary legend Barry Davies has questioned the need to replace Gary Lineker with three people on Match of the Day.
The presenter is set to step down from his role on the weekly highlights show at the end of the season, after more than 25 years anchoring the programme. Lineker is to be replaced by Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan as the telecast takes on a new format.
Davies, 87, spent 35 years working on Match of the Day as a commentator and is surprised with the BBC's new direction.
"I'm surprised at the decision that's been made," Davies told The Sun. "But then I'm quite surprised at the jobs that are given to various people these days, and the need apparently to use people.
READ MORE: Soccer Saturday icon Chris Kamara shares emotional update on TV return while battling illnessREAD MORE: Mikel Arteta's blunt view on Chido Obi as Man Utd star set for rapid Arsenal reunion"They're very good broadcasters, but I'm surprised that they think it's better to have three people doing it. Gary himself would feel that he's done long enough.
"They're all very good broadcasters, and they know about the games, no doubt about that.
"It should go on forever. Because it's very popular, it's recorded matches, some of the matches I've been watching these days are much better recorded!
"I'm sure, as sure as I can be, television has changed and football has changed. For the better? I don't know, no."
Davies is set to be inducted into the National Football Museum hall of fame. The legendary commentator will join the likes of Gordon Banks, Matt Busby and Bob Paisley in being recognised alongside other modern greats.
Davies is to be welcomed into the fold at Selhurst Park on Saturday, as Crystal Palace take on Ipswich Town, with his family watching from the stands.
The former broadcaster is proud to join the ranks, and is the first commentator to do so. "Flabbergasted I was, absolutely," he said. "I couldn't believe it. When I looked at the list of people who are already members, it's extraordinary.
"I heard through my son who really sort of looks after me like an agent these days. And better than at least one of the agents that I had in my time, I might have got more Cup finals if he'd been there in the role!"
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