Italia 90 is the one thing I look back on and think If only', because we would have had a real chance in the final winning a World Cup is immortality, it's forever' Gary Lineker tells FFT about the biggest regret from his playing career

Gary Lineker is stepping down as the host of Match of the Day after 26 years, a role he took over from Des Lynam in 1999. He has had a remarkable football career, being celebrated as one of the top strikers with over 300 goals. He achieved notable success, including winning the golden boot at the 1986 World Cup and becoming England's top scorer with ten World Cup goals. However, his experience during the 1990 World Cup, where England lost to West Germany in the semi-finals, remains his most painful memory.

Gary Lineker has always viewed the defeat against West Germany in the 1990 World Cup as the biggest disappointment of his career, highlighting its emotional toll.

The transition from a leading striker to host of Match of the Day has been seamless for Gary Lineker, transitioning his football expertise into television presenting.

Achieving the golden boot in 1986 and becoming England's top World Cup scorer solidified Lineker's legacy, yet the torment of 1990's semi-final still lingers for him.

As he steps down, Lineker reflects on 26 years of hosting, influenced by TV mentor Des Lynam, who he succeeded in 1999.

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