Gary Lineker has signed a new five-year deal with the BBC.
The Match of the Day host has committed his future to the corporation until 2025, despite a 23 per cent pay cut on his reported £1.75million-a-year salary.
Lineker said: “I love working with the BBC, and am very proud to continue to be a part of their outstanding football team.
"I’m looking forward to the next five years – with a European Championship and World Cup on the horizon, it’s exciting times for me and the team.”
Following the announcement, he also tweeted: "Oh dear. Thoughts are with the haters at this difficult time."
BBC Head of TV Sport Philip Bernie added: “Gary is the outstanding football presenter of his time.
"The BBC is extremely pleased to have him leading our coverage so exceptionally for another five years.”
GMB host Piers Morgan said: "I'm absolutely disgusted that @GaryLineker has taken a 23% pay cut in the same month he's said he's taking in a refugee.
"How the hell are we supposed to hate you now, Jugs?"
Lineker was once again the BBC's top earner, according to the latest figures.
The names of BBC talent earning more than £150,000 a year have been published, a move previously instigated by the Government.
Lineker took £1.75 million, according to the figures, which cover the period until the end of March this year - before any cut.
BBC Radio 2 breakfast show DJ Zoe Ball shoots up the list - on £1.36 million, making her the highest-paid woman in the top 10.
Match Of The Day pundit Alan Shearer earned £390,000 for the same period.
