Gary Lineker
Biography of Gary Lineker
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Gary Winston Lineker
Common Aliases: Gary Lineker
Birth and Death Dates
Date of Birth: November 30, 1960
Date of Death: N/A
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: British
Profession(s): Former Professional Footballer, Sports Broadcaster
Early Life and Background
Gary Winston Lineker was born on November 30, 1960, in Leicester, England. He grew up in a family that valued sports, with his father, Barry Lineker, being a market trader and a keen sports enthusiast. Gary attended Caldecote Road School and later City of Leicester Boys' Grammar School, where he developed a passion for football. Despite his slight build, he excelled in the sport, demonstrating a natural talent for goal-scoring from a young age. His early life in Leicester, a city with a rich footballing culture, played a significant role in shaping his future career.
Major Accomplishments
Gary Lineker's football career is marked by numerous accomplishments that have cemented his status as one of England's greatest strikers. He began his professional career with Leicester City in 1978, where he quickly made a name for himself as a prolific goal-scorer. His exceptional performance earned him a transfer to Everton in 1985, where he won the PFA Players' Player of the Year award and the Football Writers' Association Footballer of the Year award.
Lineker's international career with the England national team is particularly noteworthy. He scored 48 goals in 80 appearances, making him one of the country's top goal-scorers. His most memorable performance came during the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, where he won the Golden Boot as the tournament's top scorer with six goals. This achievement solidified his reputation on the global stage.
After his stint with Everton, Lineker moved to Barcelona, where he continued to impress with his goal-scoring prowess. He later played for Tottenham Hotspur, winning the FA Cup in 1991, and concluded his playing career with Nagoya Grampus Eight in Japan.
Notable Works or Actions
Beyond his football career, Gary Lineker has made significant contributions as a sports broadcaster. After retiring from professional football, he transitioned to television, becoming a prominent sports presenter. He is best known for his role as the host of the BBC's "Match of the Day," a position he has held since the late 1990s. His insightful analysis and charismatic presence have made him a beloved figure among football fans.
Lineker is also known for his work as a columnist and his involvement in various charitable activities. He has been an advocate for numerous causes, including cancer research and children's charities, using his platform to raise awareness and funds.
Impact and Legacy
Gary Lineker's impact on football and sports broadcasting is profound. As a player, he was celebrated for his sportsmanship, never receiving a yellow or red card throughout his career. This exemplary conduct earned him respect both on and off the field. His goal-scoring records and performances in major tournaments have left an indelible mark on English football history.
In broadcasting, Lineker has set a high standard for sports journalism, combining expertise with a personable approach that resonates with audiences. His ability to engage viewers and provide thoughtful commentary has influenced the way football is presented on television.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Gary Lineker is widely quoted and remembered for his sharp wit, insightful commentary, and contributions to football. His quotes often reflect his deep understanding of the game and his ability to articulate complex ideas in an accessible manner. Whether discussing the intricacies of a match or broader issues within the sport, Lineker's words carry weight and are frequently cited by fans, analysts, and fellow broadcasters.
His legacy as a footballer and broadcaster ensures that his voice remains influential in the world of sports. Lineker's commitment to integrity, both on the pitch and in his media career, has made him a trusted figure whose opinions are valued by many. As a result, his quotes continue to inspire and provoke thought, solidifying his place as a respected and memorable figure in the world of football.
Quotes by Gary Lineker
I've now been in over 100 adverts for Walkers, and we've had a lot of laughs along the way.
This whole science thing of working out if players are a little bit tired just gives you an excuse to leave them out.
Most of my best games were when I felt crap - I could hardly move on the morning of the World Cup semi-final in 1990 - but there's a thing called adrenaline that gets you through.
Ultimately, if we can develop enough players, the balance of foreign players isn't great, but that's because we're not producing enough players.
Kids are learning to play. That's why we're seeing an emergence. That's why we're seeing the Under-17s and Under-20s doing better in international football.
Playing football and presenting TV are totally different things, but there are similarities: it's exciting, it can go well, it can go badly... the difference is when presenting goes badly, it doesn't really affect anyone's life, whereas when you have a bad day on the pitch, it affects people's moods for a whole week.
I think people come and go, 'I'm going to find the real Gary. What is it... the real Gary? I've got to find it.' But the thing is, it's pretty much what you see is what you get. I'm just like this. There's no hidden viciousness.