Match of the Day contender rules himself out of replacing Gary Lineker as host

Bhasin previously presented Football Focus and the Football League show, with many fans still reminiscing about his time on the programmes to this day.

After Lineker's departure from the show was announced, a user on social media X platform posted: "Your time has finally come @_manishbhasin."

Now, Bhasin has replied, writing: "I wish. Thanks for the kind comments though."

Many pundits and TV presenters have been touted for the role, but whoever steps up will have big shoes to fill after Lineker's 25 years as the face of the show.

Mark Chapman, who has hosted Match of the Day 2 for over a decade, is the bookies' favourite.

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Chapman would be a reliable option considering he has filled in for 63-year-old Lineker on Saturday's edition of the show on numerous occasions.

Current pundits Alan Shearer or Micah Richards have also been tipped for a promotion to the hot seat.

Former Arsenal and England defender and current Football Focus presenter Alex Scott could also step into the role.

In 2018 she became the first female pundit to work at a men's World Cup for the BBC and was the first woman pundit for Sky Sports later that year.

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Seasoned veteran Gabby Logan has also been considered by the bookies.

The 51-year-old has vast experience after covering many Olympics, World Cups and Euros since 2007.

There are other names at the BBC such as Dion Dublin and Jason Mohammad who may also be in the running.

Away from the presenter role, there have been rumours of MOTD wanting to target digital opportunities, which would fuel rumours of needing more youthful faces on board.

According to The Sun, radio host Roman Kemp is being mooted for a digital role.

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The Arsenal fan already has established ties with the BBC, co-presenting The One Show.

But much to the disappointment of many Football League lovers, Bhasin won't be the next man in focus on MOTD.