Rhianna Benson
Football pundit Micah Richards has revealed his father passed away shortly before he appeared on air for England's semi-final game against Argentina.
The BBC presenter took to Instagram last night (15 Jul) following the Three Lions' heartbreaking 2-1 defeat, sharing a sweet childhood photo alongside his belolved dad, Lincoln.
"Not long before going on air today, I received the awful news that my father Lincoln had passed away," Richards, 38, wrote. "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."
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The former Manchester City right-back added: "It was so rare for him to not be by my side.
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."
He continued: "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."
Birmingham-born Richards, famed for winning 13 caps for England in his own illustrious career, appeared on the BBC live from Atlanta alongside fellow sport stars Joe Hart and Wayne Rooney, but opted not to mention the passing of his father while presenting.
Since then, tributes have poured in for the fan-favourite, with many fans offering their condolences in the comment section of his emotional post.
His close friend and co-host Jamie Carragher penned: "Sending love to you & all the family."
Ex-England coach John Terry added: "So sorry @micahrichards - Sending our love and condolences mate [at] this very difficult time."
Former Lioness and presenter Karen Carney also wrote: "Thinking of you and your family."
"Thinking of you and the family my friend," Arsenal alum Theo Walcott continued.
Joe Hart added: "Sending love Meeks … here for you all . RIP Lincoln."
Sport reporter Kelly Somers went on: "he would be so proud of you, sending you and your family so much love x."