Who is Kenny Dalglish Daughter? All About Kelly Cates

For months, football fans and BBC insiders have been asking the same burning question: Who will replace Gary Lineker as host of Match of the Day? With the legendary presenter stepping down in May 2025 after decades in the role, speculation has been running rampant. Now, we finally have an answer: Kelly Cates.

The announcement has sent shockwaves through the world of football punditry. Cates, a staple at Sky Sports and a seasoned sports broadcaster, will take the reins of the BBC’s most iconic football show. She’ll be joined by familiar faces Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman, making for an exciting new era in football broadcasting.

Who is Kelly Cates?

For those unfamiliar with her, Kelly Cates is no stranger to the world of football – or the world of legends, for that matter. As the daughter of Liverpool icon Sir Kenny Dalglish, she was practically born into the sport. But while her father was busy making history on the pitch, Kelly was quietly building her own legacy in the world of sports media.

At 49, she’s one of the most respected broadcasters in the game. With years of experience covering the Premier League for Sky Sports, hosting on Radio 5 Live, and leading Champions League coverage, Cates is a seasoned pro with deep knowledge of the game and a smooth, engaging on-air presence.

Her appointment is a major coup for the BBC, particularly given her long-standing role at Sky Sports. The move signals a fresh, dynamic shift for Match of the Day as it heads into a post-Lineker era. But what does this mean for the show – and how did Kelly Cates land the most coveted job in football broadcasting?

The Making of a Football Broadcaster

Kelly Cates has always been around football, but she didn’t initially plan on making a career in it. She studied maths at university before unexpectedly landing a role at Sky Sports News when it launched in 1998. From there, her career took off.

She quickly became a household name among football fans, known for her insightful analysis, quick wit, and ability to hold her own in a room full of ex-pros. Whether covering Premier League action for Sky or diving into deep football discussions on 5 Live, she has always been a trusted voice in the sport.

However, her rise has not been without challenges. Being the daughter of a football legend came with its own set of expectations – and criticisms. Many accused her of benefiting from nepotism, but she has always been candid about carving her own path.

“I can be both. I can be his daughter, and I can have my job. They’re different things,” she once said on the 90mins football podcast.

Indeed, she has spent decades proving that her success is down to talent and hard work, not her famous surname.

What This Means for Match of the Day

Replacing Gary Lineker is no easy task. He’s been at the helm of Match of the Day for nearly 30 years, making it a weekend institution for millions of football fans. His blend of charm, humor, and deep football knowledge has made him irreplaceable in the eyes of many.

But if anyone is up to the challenge, it’s Kelly Cates. Her ability to command a studio, navigate complex football discussions, and bring a fresh perspective to the game makes her the perfect candidate. And she’s not doing it alone.

With Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman joining the lineup, the BBC is betting on a strong presenting team rather than a direct Lineker replacement. Logan, a veteran sports presenter, and Chapman, a well-respected voice in football broadcasting, will bring experience and balance to the new era of MOTD.

This also marks a significant step forward for women in football media. Having two female anchors leading one of the most-watched sports programs in the UK is a major moment for representation in the industry.

The Logan-Cates Connection

Kelly Cates won’t be going at it alone – and that’s a good thing. She shares the stage with Gabby Logan, another powerhouse in sports broadcasting. The two have been friends and colleagues for years, with Cates even appearing on Logan’s Mid Point podcast to chat about life, career, and even dating.

Gabby Logan, herself from a sporting dynasty (she’s married to former Scotland rugby player Kenny Logan), brings a wealth of experience to the table. Her children, Reuben and Lois Logan, are also making names for themselves in the sporting world, proving that talent truly runs in the family.

Together, Cates and Logan represent a refreshing shift for Match of the Day. Their combined expertise, charisma, and deep understanding of the sport will undoubtedly breathe new life into the show.

The Future of Football Broadcasting

Kelly Cates stepping into this role isn’t just about replacing a football legend – it’s about moving football broadcasting forward. Her appointment signals a more inclusive, modern approach to how we talk about the game on television.

For years, football punditry has been dominated by ex-players, many of whom bring their own biases and traditional perspectives. Cates, however, represents a new breed of football broadcaster: someone who has grown up in the game, studied it, and covered it at the highest level – all without ever lacing up a pair of professional boots.

With Match of the Day heading into this new chapter, fans can expect the same in-depth analysis, engaging discussions, and classic Premier League highlights – but with a fresh, contemporary edge.

So, as we say goodbye to Lineker, let’s get ready for an exciting new chapter – because with Kelly Cates at the helm, Match of the Day is in very safe hands.