Former Match of the Day presenter Des Lynam has stirred controversy by commenting on the high salary of his successor, Gary Lineker, and the qualifications of female football pundits. Lynam argued that Lineker's £1.35 million salary is hard to justify compared to the earnings of nurses and firefighters, though he acknowledged that it reflects market demands. He also suggested that female pundits lack the necessary experience to analyze men’s football, though he clarified he has no issue with female presenters overall. Despite his criticisms, Lynam praised Lineker’s development as a presenter, noting his initial reluctance to voice strong opinions and his eventual improvement. Lineker, who has topped the BBC’s highest-paid list for seven consecutive years, is seen by Lynam as 'a very lucky chap' benefitting from two successful careers.