Gary Lineker has received swathes of support on Twitter after suggestions that the BBC should fire the former England striker for his tweeting on immigration.

Lineker has often tweeted his support for immigrants arriving on British soil, but something he recently retweeted on the subject of the age of child migrants contained inaccuracies, resulting in two Tory MPs, quoted in a Sun article, calling for his position as a BBC employee to be assessed.

The Match Of The Day presenter responded on social media.

Getting a bit of a spanking today, but things could be worse: Imagine, just for a second, being a refugee having to flee from your home.

— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) October 21, 2016

And it’s fair to say he wasn’t short of support.

BBC 'under pressure' to fire @GaryLineker ? Do me a favour. Great credit to him for standing up for what he believes in. Brilliant presenter

— Oliver Holt (@OllieHolt22) October 21, 2016

Some expressed their gratitude that Lineker had taken a stand.

@GaryLineker I'm really glad you're doing this

— Abi Wilkinson (@AbiWilks) October 21, 2016

Robbie Savage offered support to a fellow former professional in his own way.

@GaryLineker I was called a top pundit last week by same people 😂😂👍🏻

— Robbie Savage (@RobbieSavage8) October 21, 2016

Lineker would be a somewhat surprising choice for Sports Personality of the Year – would he not have to present himself with the trophy? We’re not sure that would work.

Can't wait for @GaryLineker to win Sports Personality Of The Year

— RamAlbumClub (@RamAlbumClub) October 21, 2016

This was a quick change of heart by The Sun.

The Sun on Gary Lineker. From "England legend" to "Leftie luvvie" literally overnight. 🤔 pic.twitter.com/7dZZLfZovF

— Martin Belam (@MartinBelam) October 20, 2016

Lineker himself enjoyed that one.

Must say though, I'm rather chuffed to have been called a 'luvvie'.

— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) October 21, 2016

Not everyone was in agreement with the former Leicester striker, however.

@GaryLineker you deserve it, hope you lose your job

— Matt Porter (@MxttPxrtxr) October 21, 2016

Meanwhile, others pointed to Lineker’s position of privilege.

@GaryLineker ivory tower champagne socialist

— Shae (@shae_123456) October 21, 2016

But most seemed delighted to see one of Britain’s most popular figures speaking with a little compassion on the subject of immigration.

@GaryLineker In these dark days, you're a source of light. Just wanted to offer my support.

— David Winner (@dwinnera) October 21, 2016

And Lineker was touched by the backing he has so far received.

Slightly overwhelmed by the support on here today to be honest. Thank you.

— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) October 21, 2016