Rio Ferdinand was overlooked for the BBC's coverage of the World Cup's opening game due to concerns that his links with Saudi Arabia would lead to accusations of hypocrisy in a debate over Qatar's human rights record.
The former England defender was due to appear with Alan Shearer and Alex Scott alongside host Gary Lineker at Al Bayt Stadium for Qatar vs Ecuador.
But he was replaced by ex-Wales defender Ashley Williams when it became clear that the start of the programme would be dominated by ethical issues.
The BBC did not show the opening ceremony on their main channel, instead discussing Qatar's human rights record.