Alex Scott will be the first ever female presenter of Football Focus as she lands Dan Walker’s old job on the show

PUNDIT and Strictly Come Dancing star Alex Scott is to be the new host of BBC One’s Football Focus.

The 36-year-old ex-Chelsea and Arsenal ace will lead the Saturday lunchtime show when presenter Dan Walker leaves at the end of the season.

Alex, who currently appears on Match Of The Day 2, will be the first woman to front the show, on air since 1974.

A source said: “Alex was deemed the perfect fit for the role.

“After her stint on Strictly in 2019, her popularity went through the roof.

“Not only is she a great broadcaster, her knowledge of the game is outstanding.

“Alex is going to be a huge asset to the Football Focus team.

“Everyone is so excited to have her on board.”

Alex retired as a player in 2017 and then worked for the BBC and Sky.

Dan, who joined in 2009, announced he was leaving last week.

He said: “I’m so proud of the job we’ve done, the changes we’ve made and issues we’ve looked at while the football landscape changed immeasurably.

“Having said that, after 12 years it’s time for someone else to take the reigns.”

Alex was the bookies’ favourite.

Last night a spokesman for the BBC said: “An announcement on the new presenter will be made in due course.”