Gary Lineker could have avoided social media and waited for the dust to settle after the BBC published his wages - along with some of his colleague’s - in their annual report on Wednesday.However, the Match of the Day host didn’t hide and engaged with those critical of his eye-watering salary.It was revealed that Lineker earned between £1.75 million and £1.8 million in 2016/17 - and the former England international tried to make light of this by joking about on Twitter.“This whole BBC salary exposure business is an absolute outrage...I mean how can @achrisevans be on more than me?” Lineker tweeted, in jest.

This, however, didn’t go down well with all of his 6.29 million Twitter followers. Some felt he was gloating and this was then covered by the Daily Star.

Here’s how their Twitter exchange went…

Jimmy Bullard then joined in the chat

Retired Premier League midfielder Jimmy Bullard then joined in the conversation, lightening the mood with a funny tweet.

“Worth every penny Gaz don't worry about that!!!” Bullard tweeted. “Who else is there that can do your job apart from me 😉😉😉 #bbc #halftheprice“

We’re not sure the BBC will take you up on your generous offer, Jimmy, although if you don’t ask you don’t get.

Bullard's interesting post-football career

The 38-year-old has become something of a TV personality since hanging up his boots in 2012.

He has his own segment on Sky Sports’ Soccer AM and even took part in ITV’s ‘I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! Back in 2014.

Bullard was also in charge of the non-league side Leatherhead last season - his first job in management - but left the club in May.

"Jimmy Bullard has decided to pursue a full-time role in football away from Fetcham Grove,” a statement read on the club’s website.

"Leatherhead Football Club would like to thank Jimmy for all he has done, enjoying a great final run which saw the Tanners survive relegation and finish 13th in the table.

"We wish Jimmy every success in his football management career and 'thank you' for the great times seen at The Grove in 2016/17."