Gary Lineker has only been on Twitter for a few weeks – but says he is already addicted and has an online sparring partner.

The former Leicester City star has amassed nearly 200,000 followers since he joined the social networking site less than three weeks ago.

And he has been exchanging banter with the former News of the World and Daily Mirror editor Piers Morgan, via the website for several days.

During one conversation, Morgan tweeted: "I currently air in 200 countries/territories – how you getting on?" The Match of the Day presenter replied: "I think the two World Cups I played in probably edged that."

Speaking to the Mercury yesterday, ahead of the release of his latest Walkers crisps advert, Lineker said he had quickly become a Twitter addict.

"It's a bit of fun and it's quite addictive in a way, it's quite surprised me," he said.

"George (Lineker's son) got me into it, so he's to blame.

"You can have a bit of banter, which I enjoy, it's like being in the dressing room.

"But you've got to remember that it's banter people can see."

He said he sometimes felt "mildly guilty" about not being able to respond to all the messages he receives.

But he's always been quick to reply to Morgan.

"We have a bit of banter, a bit of fun, I think he quite likes playing the pantomime villain," the former England striker said.

"George said, 'You've got to follow Piers Morgan and Alan Sugar because they're always having a go at each other.

"I've had a bit of banter with him. He sometimes sets you up quite nicely, I must say. How long it'll go on for, I don't know."

Lineker also gave his opinion on Leicester City's chances of making the play-offs.

"I thought a couple of weeks ago they might have a boost and make it to the play-offs, but they're far too inconsistent recently.

"But a final surge, you only need to put a few wins together. I'm still keeping my fingers crossed."

He said he was still "very much" a fan of the club despite not being able to get down to the games due to his Saturday job.

Lineker will next be hitting the screens when the latest Walkers advertising campaign first airs during the break in Coronation Street on Friday.

The ads are renowned for featuring a host of famous faces alongside the footballer. This time, he is accompanied by boyband The Wanted and reality stars Joey Essex and Chloe Sims, from The Only Way is Essex.

"I met The Wanted lads and they were good fun, they're all football fans so there was something to talk about there."