Micah Richards has revealed he learned of his father's death just before going on air to cover England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina.
The former England defender, 38, appeared alongside Wayne Rooney and Joe Hart on the BBC as Thomas Tuchel's side suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat in Atlanta on Wednesday evening.
Shortly after the broadcast ended, Richards shared the devastating news that his father, Lincoln, had died unexpectedly.
Posting a childhood photograph of the pair on Instagram, he wrote: "Not long before going on air today, I received the awful news that my father Lincoln had passed away.
“His death was unexpected, and he has left us all too soon. He was my greatest fan. He barely missed a game my entire life.
“He would take me wherever I needed to go when I was a kid and he was the proudest parent possible during my professional career. It was so rare for him to not be by my side.”
Explaining why he still chose to fulfil his broadcasting duties, Richards said he knew his father would have wanted him to carry on.
He added: “I know how much watching England World Cup games means to everyone at home, and how the experience bonds families together across the generations, like nothing else.
“I know, particularly as a proud old-school Yorkshireman, Dad would've wanted the show to go on this evening. And so it did.
“Thinking of my siblings and all my wider family today as we remember my father Lincoln, my hero and inspiration.”
Tributes quickly poured in from across the football world, with James Maddison writing: “Sending love mate.”
Former teammate Joe Hart added: "Sending love Meeks… here for you all. RIP Lincoln."
Jill Scott added: “Thinking of you and your family Micah x x” while Jamie Carragher responded: “Sending love to you and all the family.”
Juan Mata replied: “Sorry for your loss Micah.”
Chloe Kelly said: “Thinking of you.”
One supporter praised Richards for continuing with the broadcast despite the personal tragedy, writing: “Well done for coming out and presenting tonight, not an easy thing to do. Thoughts with your family.”
