GARY LINEKER has been accused of being too friendly with his Baller League opposition – before a ball has even been kicked.
The England legend, 64, attended the Baller League UK draft on Monday alongside a host of familiar faces.
PAGary Lineker went rogue at the Baller League UK Draft in London[/caption]
YouTube/Baller League UKThe Match of the Day host (left) ditched fellow managers Alan Shearer (centre) and Micah Richards (right)[/caption]
YouTube/Baller League UKLineker raced over to give former MOTD colleague Ian Wright – a rival in the league – a massive hug[/caption]
Lineker was joined by stars including Luis Figo, John Terry and Robert Pires ahead of the upcoming six-a-side tournament.
The Match of the Day host is managing a team in the tournament alongside his BBC colleagues Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.
Host Olivia Buzaglo introduced the three former players to the crowd, as they debuted their team ‘Deportrio’,
As they walked out past the other managers, Lineker spotted his former MOTD mate Ian Wright.
The England legend had a wild reaction as he immediately ditched Shearer and Richards to sprint over to Wright, before giving him a huge hug.
Buzaglo was joined by influencers KSI and Chunkz to introduce the teams.
And Chunkz was not impressed by Lineker failing to put on his gameface.
He complained: “I don’t like the niceties, you know? They’re getting too friendly there.”
Cheltenham Festival betting offers and free bets
A laughing Buzaglo added: “Too friendly aren’t they.”
Chunkz added: “I don’t like it.”
The Baller League saw immense success in Germany and will launch in the UK on March 24.
Former pros, social media stars, and free agents are all invited to tonight’s draft in the capital.
12 teams in total are entering the competition, with six matches being held weekly before the playoffs.
Baller League CEO, Felix Starck explained: “Baller League is a brand new way to consume football.
“We’re redefining how the game is played by bringing an exhilarating and authentic approach to football, and one that will appeal to current fans along with future generations.
“Baller League is all about forward-thinking, aggressive, hyper-exciting football.
“We’re about creating a version of the game that’s impossible to ignore – thrilling, bold and packed with excitement.”
What are the Baller League rule?
But what are the rules?
Matches will be played in a six-a-side format on an smaller indoor pitch.
Each half set to last 15 minutes.
Shock rule twists to be introduced for the final three minutes of each half including a three vs three format, long-range goals counting as double, and goalkeepers not allowed to use their hands.
These rule twists for the final three minutes will be randomised.
MLS style one-vs-one penalties to be used.
12 teams in the league with the top four going through to the playoffs.
League set to start in March 2025, with the final four play-off in May to crown the winner.
Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
