Veteran commentator Barry Davies has cast doubt on the BBC’s decision to replace Gary Lineker with a trio of presenters for Match of the Day. The broadcasting icon, who is soon to be honoured in the National Football Museum hall of fame, expressed his surprise at the move to The Sun: “I’m surprised at the decision that’s been made,” said Davies.

“But then I’m quite surprised at the jobs that are given to various people these days, and the need apparently to use people.

“They’re very good broadcasters, but I’m surprised that they think it’s better to have three people doing it. Gary himself would feel that he’s done long enough.

“They’re all very good broadcasters, and they know about the games, no doubt about that.

“It should go on forever. Because it’s very popular, it’s recorded matches, some of the matches I’ve been watching these days are much better recorded!” He concluded with a touch of uncertainty about the evolution of the sports broadcasting landscape: “I’m sure, as sure as I can be, television has changed and football has changed. For the better? I don’t know, no.”

Davies is poised for a warm reception at Selhurst Park on Saturday, as Crystal Palace faces Ipswich Town, with Davies’ family in attendance. The former commentator expressed his delight at entering such an esteemed group, becoming the inaugural commentator to be honoured so.

Overwhelmed by his inclusion, he said: “Flabbergasted I was, absolutely,” and continued, “I couldn’t believe it. When I looked at the list of people who are already members, it’s extraordinary.

“I heard through my son who really sort of looks after me like an agent these days. And better than at least one of the agents that I had in my time, I might have got more Cup finals if he’d been there in the role!”.