Gary Lineker makes BBC return in surprise move after England win

Gary Lineker’s surprise return to BBC Sport highlighted the tight crossover between football coverage and live tournament analysis after England’s 2-1 World Cup win over Norway. The former Three Lions forward interrupted a BBC Sport reaction segment by barging into the broadcast during Micah Richards’ discussion of the decision to reverse an England penalty. Referee Clement Turpin ruled that Djed Spence initiated contact with Oscar Bobb before going down. Lineker, wearing an England shirt, declared “Definitely a penalty” before quickly leaving the frame, while Wayne Rooney made a brief quip. The programme, streamed as Thomas Tuchel’s side secured a World Cup semi-final place, later refocused on England’s performance and penalty calls.