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Alan Hansen confirms 'Match of the Day' exit after World Cup

Alan Hansen confirms that he is leaving Match of the Day following next year's World Cup in Brazil.

Alan Hansen has confirmed that his time as football pundit on BBC show Match of the Day is coming to an end.

The 58-year-old, who signed a two-year contract with the broadcaster following the 2012 European Championships, spent 22 years on the highlights and analysis show alongside host Gary Lineker.

"I'm retiring from Match of the Day at the end of the season," Hansen told The Telegraph. "I will have been there for 22 years and will be 59, so it's the right time for me.

"The guys at the BBC know me and I said, 'Look, this is categorical. I'm leaving and nothing will make me change my mind'. I am contracted to do the World Cup and I will do that as it will be a good way to go out but I have had a great run."

Hansen has been given a reduced role on the show this season, as has former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson.

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