Simon Thomas has sent a poignant message of support to Mark Chapman, whose wife tragically died aged 44.
The former Sky Sports presenter tweeted the Match of the Day 2 host to offer condolences after the news of Sara’s death on Wednesday, following a long illness.
He acknowledged that life dealt Mark and his family a "very tough blow" but believes he will "hold his family together".
Simon’s own wife Gemma died in November 2017 - three days after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.
Simon tweeted: “Thoughts very much with @markchapman and his kids tonight. Life has dealt them a very tough blow but have no doubt, given the support he showed me a two-and-a-half, that he’ll hold that family together.”
Rochdale-born Mark, who grew up in Sale, presents Match of the Day 2 on BBC Two and the football news show Final Score.
The presenter, affectionately known as Chappers, also hosts the Saturday afternoon football radio phone-in show on 5Live, 606 and The Monday Night Club on the same station.
Mark and Sara married in 2001 and they have three children Ben, Jessie and Millie.
Match of the Day host Gary Lineker described Sara’s passing as “heartbreaking”.
He wrote: “Oh no. How utterly heartbreaking. Thoughts are with poor Chappers and his family.”
Other names in the world of sport posted condolences on the social media channel including BBC colleague Dan Walker.
The Breakfast presenter tweeted: “Absolutely crushed for Chappers and his family. He loved Sara so much. May she rest in peace.”
In another tweet, he continued: “When Chappers found out that my dad was diagnosed with cancer last year, he was so kind and thoughtful. He was also honest about the effects of cancer on his wife.
“His words and advice were incredibly helpful.
“Sending all my love to Mark and his young family.”
Elsewhere Everton Football Club also sent their repsects.
They said: "The thoughts of everyone at Everton are with @markchapman and his family after the sad passing of his wife Sara."
