BBC soccer commentator Lineker returns after suspension for criticising government

Soccer Football - FA Cup - Quarter-Final - Manchester City v Burnley - Etihad Stadium, Manchester, Britain - March 18, 2023 TV pundit Gary Lineker alongside the FA cup trophy before the match REUTERS/Phil Noble

LONDON (Reuters) - Former England football captain Gary Lineker returned to host the BBC's flagship soccer show on Saturday, a week after his suspension for criticising government immigration policy caused a row over the broadcaster's impartiality rules.

BBC managers reversed their decision to suspend Lineker, the broadcaster's highest-paid presenter, after his colleagues refused to work in solidarity last weekend, forcing it to air soccer matches without normal commentary.