BBC confirm fresh pundit for Match of the Day ahead of new Premier League season

Houghton, who retired after skippering Manchester City earlier this summer, is looking forward to the new challenge.

"I am looking forward to being able to share my experiences and provide insights into the game that I love," she said.

The Beeb have acted in the wake of Ian Wright's departure, with the Arsenal icon stepping down earlier in the year.

Houghton covered the Women's World Cup for the broadcaster last year as England came close to winning the competition, only to lose 1-0 to Spain in the final.

And she'll be joining Theo Walcott and Joe Hart in the studio this season, with both men already confirmed to be part of the BBC's line up.

Alan Shearer will continue to be a regular on the show, alongside host Gary Lineker.

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Micah Richards, who will miss the first episode of the season, will take on a 'more prominent punditry role'.

Danny Murphy, Jermaine Jenas and Dion Dublin will work on the show when needed.

Walcott, meanwhile, has said he's excited about being on Match of the Day - having 'grown up' watching the programme.

"I grew up watching BBC Sport so I’m over the moon to be joining," he said.

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"It's a dream come true for me and I’m excited to get going. Life after retiring from football was always going to be scary.

"There’s plenty for me to learn but I can draw on the career I've had to offer different views."

The Premier League will kick off tonight with Manchester United set to face Fulham.

The Red Devils will be eager to lay down a marker, having finished eighth last term.

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Ten Hag has been backed with four big summer signings, having previously looked set for the sack.

But the Dutchman has revealed his side are 'not ready' for the start of the new season as they look to get their campaign off to a flying start.

"It's true it's not the pre-season where you can in five, six weeks work on the team," Ten Hag said. "It's very complicated.

"We had the USA tour squad, then we add the players who did the Euros and Copa America, and now new signings and now we have to make a team from it.

"That team is not ready, but the league starts - and there are more managers to deal with this problem.

"We definitely have this problem but, still, we have some rules, some principles and we have to make a start.

"We can't hide ourselves, we can't run away from it, so we have to deal with it."