BBC loses Le Saux over Lawrenson dispute

Friday, 31, Mar 2006 06:15

Former Chelsea and England defender Graeme Le Saux is set to be missing from the BBC's World Cup coverage this summer after a row over who would be co-commentating on England's games.

Le Saux has been a highly visible member of the BBC's pundit team in recent weeks and was due to appear on Match of the Day with presenter Gary Lineker tomorrow night.

But after a fall-out with the corporation's sport chiefs, the 37-year-old has handed in his notice and will not be on our screens from Germany this summer.

Le Saux is said to have been initially offered the chance to co-commentate on England's matches in the tournament, only to belatedly find out there had been a change in plan and that veteran pundit Mark Lawrenson was to get the job instead.

Annoyed at the way the news was broken to him and disappointed at being overlooked in favour of the more senior Lawrenson, Le Saux then turned down the opportunity to be involved in a lesser capacity.

A BBC spokeswoman said: "Graeme Le Saux was moved off the England commentary team because the BBC felt for games of this significance the audience would want the experience and expertise Mark Lawrenson brings to the commentary box.

"Graeme was offered an alternative role at the World Cup and opportunities to continue to learn and develop his skills within the BBC but he declined the offer."

Le Saux has impressed viewers with his knowledge of the game since taking the famous Match of the Day seat and he may now find himself pursued by ITV or Sky.