Gary Lineker has irked some Sheffield United fans by referring to their team as Sheffield Wednesday on Match Of The Day.
It had been 12 years since the Blades were featured on the iconic BBC programme as a Premier League side. Yet supporters may have been less than impressed when discussing the 1-1 draw at Bournemouth, Lineker referred to their side as “Wednesday.”
It appeared to be an honest mistake that the presenter quickly corrected. However, a report from the Sheffield Star suggests it was actually a deliberate joke from Lineker.
Instead it is said to refer back to a Twitter exchange the former England international had with a fan about United.
I’ve spent my whole life in football. Do you think for one moment that I’d make that sort of error? Wishing you well for the new Premier League season and what’s more, I think Wednesday might surprise a few people. https://t.co/KVipa1I2mU
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) August 9, 2019
These Sheffield United supporters are unimpressed with Gary Lineker
If it was a joke, then for many of the Blades faithful it was one that fell pretty flat. After Lineker’s “mistake” on live TV several took to social media to criticise the ex-striker.
Not hard to get trams right tho is it Gary. Sheffield United are in the prem and we drew at Bournemouth. Were not Sheffield Wednesday they’re in the league below . Maybe time to give it up if u csnt remember simple facts like this. Funny how u dont mistake man city and man u
— Lizzy (@LizBurke2) August 11, 2019
@GaryLineker are you having us on or something calling Sheffield United Sheffield Wednesday. If not that is totally disrespectful to do that on live TV. Do you know how offensive that is to a blades fan? ⚔️🔴⚪️
— Will Earl (@WillEarl4) August 10, 2019
Not happy with @GaryLineker mentioning Sheffield Wednesday instead of Sheffield United on @BBCMOTD 🙅🏾♀️🙅🏾♀️🙅🏾♀️ get use to the UNITED! ⚔️🔴⚪️⚫️ #UTB #COYRAWW
— A I M E S 👸🏾 (@xamyspence_) August 11, 2019
@GaryLineker well done Gary 12 years we’ve been trying to get back to the premier league….and you call us Sheffield Wednesday 😳😢🔴⚪️⚫️😂😂
— mick rowan (@mickrow66) August 10, 2019
For most United fans, the fact that their team will be on Match Of The Day every weekend is the only response needed when mocked by those who support the Owls.
Lineker may has misread the situation or it may have been an innocent jibe. Either way, roll on Crystal Palace at Bramall Lane and let’s hope he is highlighting a first win of the season for United.