CHRIS SUTTON: It shouldn’t be a case of choosing between work or backing Gary Lineker

I’m a pundit who works for the BBC and I’m proud to do so. I’m also a huge admirer of Gary Lineker and, like most football fans, love watching Match of the Day on a Saturday night.

I sincerely hope this messy situation gets resolved so we can see Gary back on MotD as soon as possible. The BBC’s programming has been severely affected this weekend and I was disappointed there was no 606 on BBC Radio 5 Live. 

Many football fans will have been really disappointed with the reduced coverage. The brilliant Ian Dennis, who went ahead with covering Leeds v Brighton on 5 Live on Saturday, summed it up best on air. 

He said he is a commentator and felt it was important to provide a service to the 5 Live audience. And that’s where I stand. Gary has had great support from fans and fellow broadcasters, pundits and presenters. I support free speech. 

The power to be able to speak freely is pivotal. But the situation is complicated and I feel greatly for BBC staffers who are not sure what to do and freelancers who are losing work because of this situation. 

People shouldn’t have to choose over whether to go to work at the BBC or support Gary Lineker (pictured) in his position

People should not be put into a position where they have to choose between work or supporting Gary. You can do both. The two are not mutually exclusive.

I’ve always admired Gary’s desire to speak up for those who have no voice. The truth is I don’t know what the agreement was between Gary and the BBC. 

I don’t know where the line is. Frankly it’s none of my business.

Right now, all I hope for is a resolution to be found, sooner rather than later.