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Chris Knight

Newcastle legend Alan Shearer discovers Match of the Day punishment decision after Gary Lineker row

Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer will not face any disciplinary action for his decision to boycott Match of the Day in support of Gary Lineker. The Premier League's all-time leading goalscorer joined numerous commentators and pundits by standing in solidarity with the suspended presenter.

The BBC's decision to pull Lineker from the show due to a breach of the corporation's social media guidelines provoked widespread outcry. Match of the Day and Match of the Day 2 both ran shortened editions on Saturday and Sunday night respectively.

Lineker's return to broadcasting duties was announced on Monday morning following a weekend of chaos across BBC Sport. The former England striker released a statement via social media thanking colleagues for their 'overwhelming' support.

READ MORE: Gary Lineker releases emotional statement after Match of the Day return confirmed

Match of the Day regulars Shearer and Ian Wright were among the first to declare they had withdrawn from their scheduled appearance on the show. However, it is understood the legendary Newcastle number nine and others who made themselves unavailable to work will not face any action from the BBC as a result.

Lineker is set to make his comeback this weekend as attention turns to the quarter-final stage of the FA Cup. The BBC has also announced it will launch an independent review of its social media guidelines.

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