Sally Nugent was left gushing as she made an “absolutely gorgeous” baby announcement live on BBC Breakfast. The morning TV presenter was sitting on the famous red sofa alongside her co-host Jon Kay as she announced that former pro footballer Steph Houghton is expecting a baby with her husband, ex-Bradford City defender Stephen Darby. Stephen has motor neurone disease (MND), and was diagnosed in 2018. But he is preparing to welcome his first child with Steph later this year.
Good News Announced Live
Sally announced: “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.” She added, “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 said it was “fantastic”, while Sally agreed it was “absolutely gorgeous news”.
Instagram Announcement
Steph announced the news on Instagram on Sunday (July 26) with a cake iced with the words “oh baby” and her ultrasound snaps. She wrote: “Half of you. Half of me. Our family will soon be three! Baby Darby 2026.”
Sally was among the first to comment on the post, gushing: “Amazing news,” with three red love heart emojis.
Background
Steph and Stephen got married in 2018 – the same year Stephen was forced to retire from football at the age of 29 after his diagnosis. He said at the time: “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.”
