Jeff Stelling has already picked Match of the Day's ideal Gary Lineker replacement

Jeff Stelling has thrown his weight behind Mark Chapman as the successor to on Match of the Day.

The confirmed earlier this month that Lineker will be stepping down from their flagship highlights show next year, although he will remain with the broadcaster until after the 2026 World Cup. While his replacement is yet to be announced, Stelling is convinced that Chapman is the only worthy candidate.

Speaking to The Telegraph, the ex-Soccer Saturday host said: "Chappers is the man for the job. Great presenter, nice sense of humour, a good rapport with the guests. He's got to be the man, surely?" Chapman currently hosts Match of the Day 2 and has previously covered the NFL and rugby league for the BBC.

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He has also been presenting live coverage of the on Sky Sports for the last two seasons. Long-time Match of the Day pundit Mark Lawrenson also believes Chapman should be given the top job at the BBC.

Speaking about who could replace Lineker, he told Metro: "I know there is a lot of speculation over Gary. Would it surprise me if he left at the end of the season? Possibly no. He's earned the right to make his own decision, there's no doubt there whatever.

"And in Chappers, there is a ready-made replacement if things go that way. It will be up to Gary." Names like Alex Scott and Gabby Logan have been floated as possible successors to Lineker, but the BBC's next move is still up in the air.

Lineker has made his recommendation to Match of the Day executives but also remained tight-lipped about his choice during the Rest is Football podcast. "Obviously I don't know who it'll be and I would never tell publicly my preference," he commented.

"I don't think that'd be the right thing to do but whoever it is, I would say be yourself."

Discussing his departure, Lineker added: "I feel this is now the right time. I think [with] the next contract they're looking to do slightly differently - so I think it makes sense for someone else to take the helm."