BBC Breakfast presenter Sally Nugent announced some baby news during the Monday, July 27 programme, co-hosted with Jon Kay. The news involved former professional footballer Steph Houghton, who is expecting a baby with her husband, former Bradford City defender Stephen Darby, who has motor neurone disease (MND).
Sally's announcement
"Now, some good news we heard over the weekend - former England and Manchester City captain Steph Houghton has announced she's pregnant with her first child," said Sally. "She has, of course, worked as a BBC pundit during this summer's World Cup, and is married to former Liverpool and Bradford footballer Stephen Darby, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2018."
Jon Kay responded: "Fantastic." Sally agreed: "Absolutely gorgeous news."
Social media reveal
Steph and Stephen announced the news on Instagram with an image showing ultrasound pictures, candles and a heart-shaped cake with the words 'Oh baby' on top in icing. The post said: "Half of You. Half of Me. Our family will soon be three! Baby Darby 2026."
Fans shared their excitement, with comments including "Wonderful news, congratulations to you both," "joyous news," "Congratulations to you both, this is the most amazing news," "Wow, now that's incredible news," and "the best news ever."
Couple's background
Steph and Stephen married in 2018, the same year Stephen retired from football after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease. In a statement at the time, he said: "It is with great sadness that I announce my immediate retirement from professional football due to a recent diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease... I would like to ask for privacy at this time so I can adjust to the battle I have ahead and so that I can spend time with those closest to me."
BBC Breakfast airs on BBC One from 6am.
