By News18,Vivek Ganapathy

Copyright news18

English football icon Gary Lineker was presented with the TV Presenter of the Year Award at the National TV Awards on Thursday for his notable work on Match of the Day.
Lineker expressed his delight with the award and noted that it is alright to use one’s platform to speak out on behalf of those who do not have a voice.
“It’s not lost on me why I might have won this award,” the 64-year-old said.
“Aside from presenting Match of the Day, the most iconic football show for 26 years,” he added.
“And there are so many amazing players I have worked with, both in front of the camera and behind the camera over that period of time,” the former England star continued.
“I want to thank each and every one of them because I wouldn’t be here receiving the award if it wasn’t for them.”
“Also, I think it demonstrates that perhaps it’s ok sometimes to use our platform to speak up on behalf of those who have no voice”
“So, thank you, it means the world,” Lineker signed off.

Lineker, who is the BBC’s highest-paid presenter, will leave the show at the end of the season after an impressive 25-year stint hosting it.
However, the former England star will continue to work for the BBC and honour his commitments up until the FIFA 2026 World Cup, after which he is set to leave the BBC entirely.
Lineker earns 1.35 million pounds a year and has hosted the highly acclaimed program since 1999.
Despite the controversies surrounding his political views over the years, the 63-year-old has remained immensely popular among fans and viewers.
The former England forward has recently launched his own podcast production company, which includes “The Rest is Football,” a podcast he co-hosts with Premier League legend Alan Shearer and former Manchester City defender Micah Richards.
The show has received rave reviews for its insights into the world of football and the Englishmen’s perspectives on current topics in the sport. His portfolio also includes other shows such as “The Rest is Politics.”