The Internet has been rife with the news that Hoda Kotb was sent to cover the London Olympics for Today, as Savannah Guthrie's work on the programme somewhat resembled a sinking ship with no hope for rescue.

However a spokesperson for NBC has come forward and, speaking to TV Guide, vehemently denied that Kotb was brought in as a 'saviour' for the flagging show. The spokesperson explained that it was common knowledge that Hoda would fly to London "because we announced it on our [Nbc's] show three weeks ago." The rep went on to explain that Hoda, who presents Today's fourth hour with Kathie Lee Gifford, was always going to be spending a few days in London to cover some more light-hearted Olympic stories, adding "she talked about it on the show several times."

The Nbc rep also pointed out that the network had begun publicizing a Facebook campaign as far back as July 9th, offering viewers the chance to choose what stories Hoda should cover whilst on the other side of the Atlantic.

The much-discussed presenter had also alluded to the campaign, and her impending flight to London, on Twitter last Friday. On the micro-blogging site, she posted: "Packing my bags and heading to london this weekend -- thx for all of the story suggestions. you know i will do them!"