Alan Shearer has dismissed suggestions of a rivalry between BBC and ITV pundits at Euro 2024, insisting they remain friends despite working for competing broadcasters. The former England striker, who is part of the BBC's punditry team, said there is no forbidden competition between the on-air talent.
Speaking on 'The Rest Is Football' podcast, Shearer revealed he has been in contact with ITV pundit Roy Keane and plans to have lunch with him. Micah Richards, also a BBC pundit, asked if mingling was allowed, to which Shearer replied: 'No it's not forbidden, they're pals aren't they?'
Richards acknowledged there is no direct competition but admitted the pressure to perform is higher during tournaments. He said: 'I wouldn't say there's competition but you want to do well, don't you? It comes with pressure.'
The BBC pundit also claimed that punditry at the Euros is significantly harder than his regular role on Match of the Day. 'Saturday night on Match of the Day is a piece of p***! When you're doing live TV you're trying to navigate your words so you don't disrespect someone,' Richards added.
During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the friendly nature of the relationship was evident when BBC and ITV pundits played a football match against each other, with Keane scoring the winner.
