Match of the Day confirm appointment of new pundit just hours before start of new Premier League season

MATCH OF THE DAY chiefs have added a former Lioness to the line-up this season.

The shift comes after Arsenal icon Ian Wright stepped down from the role in May after 27 years on the show.

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Retired Manchester City captain Steph Houghton has joined Match of the Day[/caption]

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She joins a new look panel that will also see Theo Walcott and Joe Hart joining regulars Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker[/caption]

In a new-look campaign, the BBC have added Steph Houghton to their line-up of new pundits.

The newly-retired Manchester City captain will join fellow newbies Theo Walcott and Euros pundit Joe Hart.

Houghton eased into punditry with the BBC during England women’s games after missing out on various Sarina Wiegman‘s squads after fitness concerns.

Alan Shearer will continue as a weekly pundit, while the likes of Micah Richards will take on “a more prominent punditry role” this season according to the Beeb.

Danny Murphy, Jermaine Jenas and Dion Dublin are expected to continue being utilised when needed.

Houghton, 36, said: “I am looking forward to being able to share my experiences and provide insights into the game that I love.”

She has won three Women’s Super League titles across her spells with Arsenal and City.

The defender also has 121 caps for her country, leading the Lionesses to third place at the 2015 World Cup.

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Meanwhile, Walcott – who debuts on Match of the Day this Saturday alongside regular host Gary Lineker – said: “I grew up watching BBC Sport so I’m over the moon to be joining.

“It’s a dream come true for me and I’m excited to get going. Life after retiring from football was always going to be scary.

“There’s plenty for me to learn but I can draw on the career I’ve had to offer different views.”

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Houghton announced her retirement from football in March[/caption]