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Greg James fiercely defends BBC in wake of Gary Lineker's Match of the Day suspension

Greg James has defended the BBC following Gary Lineker's Match of the Day suspension.

The former footballer, 62, was banned from presenting the show after he compared the Home Office immigration policy to Nazi Germany.

Gary was back at the helm of the football show on Saturday, but the broadcaster faced heavy criticism for suspending the father of four.

However, sticking up for his employer, Greg, 37, said: "All corporations have moments when things don’t go well... Everyone moves on.

While he said he couldn’t “specifically talk about Lineker, because it’s ongoing”, the DJ added: “I really believe in the BBC. There is nowhere else I want to do live radio.

"All corporations have moments when things don’t go well. Think of the big BBC crises over the past 20 years — Ross and Brand, Top Gear. Everyone moves on," he told The Times.

Following the furore, the BBC announced it was reviewing its social media policy, which Gary said he welcomed.

However, Greg said it 'wasn't his own job' to share opinions online.

“It’s not what I want for myself or people want from me," he stated. "I advocate for inclusivity and fairness, but it doesn’t matter what people think I believe."

After the BBC announced its decision to suspend Gary from MOTD, several of his colleagues stepped down from their roles to support him.

Alan Shearer, Ian Wright and Alex Scott all said they wouldn't be part of the broadcaster's coverage on the Saturday Gary was relieved from his duties.

However, it's now business as usual as everyone is back to work.

Announcing his decision to reinstate Gary, director general Tim Davie said: “Gary is a valued part of the BBC and I know how much the BBC means to Gary, and I look forward to him presenting our coverage this coming weekend.”

Responding to the news, Gary said: “I am glad that we have found a way forward. I support this review and look forward to getting back on air."

The ex-England star also issued a statement on Twitter - where the drama began - tweeting: "After a surreal few days, I’m delighted that we have navigated a way through this.

"I want to thank you all for the incredible support, particularly my colleagues at BBC Sport, for the remarkable show of solidarity. Football is a team game but their backing was overwhelming."

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