Alan Shearer perfectly sums up Gary Lineker moments before Match of the Day exit

Alan Shearer has paid tribute to Gary Lineker as the Match of the Day legend presents his final show on Sunday evening. The former United striker praised Lineker's ability in front of the camera and his friendship as he prepares to sign off from highlights for the final time.

Lineker announced his exit earlier in the week, with his. The ex-Barcelona star was expected to .

The 64-year-old was set to lead the broadcaster's coverage and present at next summer's in the United States. But Lineker , and .

That has not stopped Shearer from expressing his gratitude to Lineker as he conducts Match of the Day duties for the final time.

Posting on , Shearer said: "From then to now @garylineker!!! It has been an honour to share the MOTD studio with you.

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"THANK YOU for everything over the years. You are an outstanding broadcaster and manage to make a difficult job look easy.

"You’re a great friend and we will miss you here on the studio floor. Thank you"

Lineker's replacements on Match of the Day have already been announced with a combination of Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan taking the reigns from next season. The departing presenter has led the programme for 26 years.

Speaking after his exit was confirmed, Lineker said: “ 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.”

Opening the programme for the final time, . "It wasn't meant to end this way... but with the title race over and the relegation places left confirmed, the was all we had left to talk about," he said.

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