The new Match of the Day host with football in her blood: How Kelly Cates is following in her Liverpool legend father Kenny Dalglish's footsteps as Sky Sports pundit to take over from Gary Lineker's job
Share:
Her father is a Liverpool legend who is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. But Kelly Cates, the daughter of the adored 'King Kenny' Dalglish, is on a journey to football royalty herself. The 49-year-old's success with Sky Sports, fronting the broadcaster's Premier League coverage alongside an army of opinionated ex-footballers every weekend, is set to be rewarded with a new role at the jewel in the crown of the game.
![[Kelly Cates is the daughter of Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish (pictured together in 2018)]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/16/08/93186545-14196695-image-m-16_1734337760565.jpg)
In a bitter blow to Sky, MailOnline revealed last night that Cates will be joining the BBC to host Match of the Day from next season. The highly-respected presenter will become part of a three-person team of MOTD presenters following the departure of Gary Lineker who will be stepping down from his role after 26 years at the end of the season.
![[Kelly Cates is pictured in 1998, when she joined Sky Sports. She left in 2006 but returned 10 years later]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/16/08/93186437-14196695-image-m-17_1734337791990.jpg)
It is expected that Cates and fellow broadcasters Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will split presenting duties for Match of the Day and Match of the Day 2. Bosses at Sky are understood to be deeply saddened at the loss of one of their most integral presenters. Cates hosts Sky's biggest football shows and expertly holds court during fiery debates between pundits.
![[The presenter is pictured on her wedding day in 2007. She split from Tom Cates (left) in 2021]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/16/08/93186469-14196695-image-a-21_1734337909769.jpg)
The departure of Cates is a significant blow for Sky but represents a major coup for the BBC. Kelly Cates is to leave Sky Sports to become part of a three-person team of Match of the Day presenters. Kelly Cates is the daughter of Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish (pictured together in 2018).
![[Sir Kenny helps his children Paul and Kelly (right) with their homework during their childhood]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/16/08/93186427-14196695-image-m-19_1734337850647.jpg)
