By Emily Sheridan

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He left his Twitter followers confused after announcing he was leaving the micro-blogging site just eight days ago.

But it appeared Gary Lineker was missing the 140 character updates too much as he re-activated his account on Saturday.

The father-of-four, 52, was obviously baffled by the headlines and outcry to his decision to shut down his account on January 18.

He's back: Gary Lineker has returned to Twitter after an eight day absence

He's back: Gary Lineker has returned to Twitter after an eight day absence

However, he returned on Saturday, tweeting: 'Back by no popular demand whatsoever. Glad it never caused any fuss my taking a break ; ).'

Piers Morgan, who has enjoyed Twitter banter with Gary over the past few months, appeared pleased with his return.

The CNN talk show host tweeted: 'Admit it @GaryLineker - you just missed me too much.'

That didn't last long: Gary reactivated his Twitter account on Saturday afternoon

That didn't last long: Gary reactivated his Twitter account on Saturday afternoon

His cocky welcome back prompted Gary's response: 'Tis true. Missed kicking your exceedingly large a**.'

Gary's return seemed to please his eldest son George, who assumed his father had lost his 1.35million followers.

He tweeted on Saturday: 'The old mans back on twitter - @GaryLineker , lost all his followers tho so crack on. RT.'

Social: Gary and his wife Danielle at the Supper Club Barbarella a few months ago

Social: Gary and his wife Danielle at the Supper Club Barbarella a few months ago

Meanwhile, Gary is expected to sign a new contract to remain host of Match Of The Day for the BBC.

His 2million deal expires this summer and his representatives are confident he will retain his position.

If so, he will front the BBC's coverage of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

The comments below have been moderated in advance.

WHO CARES?!!!?!?

You know you have a problem when you need a break from twitter (or the internet) and have to tell people about it. Just dont log on, its easy.

Thank goodness i can sleep again now!

Bore off Gary

I just LOL'D.

We live in a sad old world!

Slave to social networking or addict or both.

He sure takes a lot of TV license payers money, no wonder he's always grinning

To be fair DM, it was only you making a fuss about!!!

Once upon a time I had great respect for Gary. but over these recent years I am beginning to think that this poor man is a FEEBLE individual.

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