Gary Lineker in mysterious exit from influencer-filled Baller League - as Idris Elba joins Maya Jama and his podcast pals Alan Shearer and Micah Richards

Gary Lineker will not be part of the Baller League for its second season.

The former England international and Match of the Day host had co-managed a team in the weekly six-a-side tournament, along with fellow pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.

However, the 64-year-old's appearances were few and far between - and his name is not among those listed among a wide and varied list of managers for the competition which returns on Monday.

A total of 12 teams, run by influencers, former celebrities and ex-players take part in Baller League, which launched in Germany in 2023.

It arrived in the UK earlier this year, with YouTuber KSI named president.

Every week managers can select two wildcards to bring into their 12-man squads, with matches shown on Sky Sports and YouTube.

Shearer and Richards will continue to manage, along with a new addition in the shape of Hollywood royalty Idris Elba.

Organisers say Season One attracted 31 billion impressions with more than 7.7m hours watched.

Famous names returning to the dugout include YouTuber Sharky, for SDS FC, John Terry, for 26ers and Maya Jama and Alisha Lehmann, for MVPs United. Ex-Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge will make his bow, joining Richards at Deportrio. Elba will take control of Rukkas FC.

'I am excited to be taking Rukkas FC into Baller League,' the actor said. 'To our competitors, take note, we are here to win and take Rukkas FC all the way.'

Lioness Chloe Kelly will take charge of Clutch FC while Shearer will join fellow former England striker Ian Wright as bosses of Wembley Rangers FC.

Representatives for Lineker and Baller League, which will take place at London's Copper Box Arena, have been approached for comment.