Former England defender Micah Richards was informed of the death of his father Lincoln shortly before going on air as a BBC pundit for the World Cup semi-final against Argentina. Richards, who won 13 caps for England, appeared alongside Joe Hart and Wayne Rooney as Thomas Tuchel's side slipped to a late 2-1 defeat in Atlanta.
Richards Reveals Personal Tragedy
Shortly after the broadcast, Richards shared the news on Instagram, writing: '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 described his father as his greatest fan, who barely missed a game his entire life and was the proudest parent possible during his professional career.
Richards 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.'
Support from Colleagues and Fans
Richards concluded his tribute by saying: 'Thinking of my siblings and all my wider family today as we remember my father Lincoln, my hero and inspiration.' The BBC and fellow pundits have since expressed their condolences, with many praising Richards for his professionalism in such difficult circumstances.
