Micah Richards, the former England defender and current BBC pundit, was informed of his father Lincoln's death just before going on air for England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina on Wednesday night. Despite the heartbreaking news, the 38-year-old chose to fulfil his broadcasting duties as part of the BBC's coverage.
Richards Reveals News on Instagram
After the broadcast, Richards took to Instagram to share the news. 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." Richards described his father as his "greatest fan" who barely missed a game throughout his life and career.
Richards, who earned 13 caps for England and played for Manchester City and Aston Villa, explained his decision to continue working: "I know how much watching England World Cup games means to everyone at home... I know, particularly as a proud old-school Yorkshireman, dad would’ve wanted the show to go on this evening. And so it did."
Support from Fellow Pundits and Footballers
Messages of support flooded Richards' Instagram post. BBC colleague Joe Hart wrote: "Sending love Meeks … here for you all. RIP Lincoln." Former England midfielder Jill Scott commented: "Thinking of you and your family Micah x x" Tottenham star James Maddison added: "Sending love mate." And ex-Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, who works with Richards on CBS, responded: "Sending love to you and all the family."
England's World Cup Exit
England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, lost the semi-final to Argentina, missing out on a place in the World Cup final. Richards had been part of the BBC's punditry team alongside Wayne Rooney and Joe Hart. The match took place in Atlanta, Georgia.
