Gary Lineker given moving ‘thank-you’ note from refugee housed in his mansion

Gary Lineker was given a moving ‘thank-you’ note from a refugee he housed in his mansion.

The Match of the Day host shared the letter on social media after putting the migrant up in his home.

Ex-England and Leicester City ace Lineker took in the refugee after being accused on social media of ‘virtue signalling’.

He had been criticised by some Twitter users for highlighting the plight of people trying to get to the UK.

Lineker announced his plan to temporarily house a migrant with help from the charity Refugees at Home in August.

And he revealed the man, known only as Rasheed, had already stayed at his mansion on Twitter and Instagram on Thursday.

The retired striker said it had been “fascinating and a real education” for him and his sons George, Harry, Tobias and Angus.

He also posted the hand-written note Rasheed had left him after leaving his home in Barnes.

It read: “When I was moving to your home, I was worried that you might be unfriendly and conservative but it was all reverse what I thought.

“During my stay in your beautiful home, I never felt that I am a stranger or guest but it seemed to me as if I am a member of your family.

“I can never forget your hospitality, love and company that you and your lovely respectful children gave to me.

“There is a saying in Balochi language, that if you give me a glass of water, I owe you my entire life. In fact you did more.

“Best wishes, Rasheed.”

Lineker said of his four sons: “Obviously they’re privileged – they know they’re privileged – but then to hear this guy’s story.

“And he was brilliant with them. I’ll definitely do it again. The letter alone made it worthwhile.

“Thanks Rasheed for giving such a different perspective on life to both myself and my boys.

“Thanks too to @RefugeesAtHome for helping to make this happen. It was a hugely positive experience and I will definitely host again.”

In an interview with GQ, Lineker said he had been bombarded with abuse from internet trolls over his pro-immigration stance.

“The strange argument was, ‘Why don’t you have them in your house then?’” he said.

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