Mark Linsey, the acting director of BBC Television, has responded to reports over the weekend which claimed that new ‘Top Gear’ host Chris Evans had acted unprofessionally on set. The reports claimed that Evans’ behaviour had led to the departure of the show’s executive producer Lisa Clark and that he had been against hiring actor Matt LeBlanc as part of the presenting team.

top gearChris Evans and new 'Top Gear' co-host Matt LeBlanc.

In a statement Linsey said: “It is rubbish to suggest Chris Evans's behaviour on the set of Top Gear has been in any way unprofessional. Chris is a consummate professional and a real team-player.”

"He is a passionate presenter who commits his heart and soul into everything he does - whether his Radio 2 show, ‘Children In Need’ or ‘Top Gear’ - and we are extremely fortunate to have him leading the show.”

More: Did Chris Evans' 'Dictatorial Behaviour' Cause 'Top Gear' Producer To Quit?

"Also, it is simply not true to suggest Chris did not support the signing of Matt LeBlanc, when he has been behind Matt joining the presenting team since day one.”

"Chris and Matt are part of a wider production team that is full of brilliant and talented people. That team is tight-knit, in great spirits and utterly focused on delivering the best possible series for viewers.”

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Over the weekend a source claimed to The Sun that Evans was a “control freak who thinks he can trample over everyone.” The source also said that when Matt LeBlanc was suggested as a possible co-host Evans had said: ‘He’s old hat, what do we want him for?”

The new series of ‘Top Gear’ will now launch on May 22nd, a fortnight later than first announced, it has also been cut down to just six episodes due to filming delays. Alongside Evans and LeBlanc, the presenting team will also include Rory Reid, Sabine Schmitz, Chris Harris and Eddie Jordan.