Sky Sports presenter Emma Saunders has revealed she has been diagnosed with a brain infection following recent treatment for cancer.
Saunders has been a key component of the broadcaster’s Premier League coverage in recent years as a touchline reporter, questioning managers before and after matches.
The Watford fan has been conspicuous by her absence in recent weeks and provided a heartwrenching update to her social media followers on Friday evening.
‘Hi folks. Unfortunately life took a bit of an unexpected turn a couple of weeks ago and I’m now off work while I recover from Encephalitis – an infection of the brain,’ she wrote on Instagramunderneath a picture of her clutching a toy giraffe from her hospital bed.
‘I hope it wont be long until I’m back to see out the end of 2024/25 – especially after missing part of the start of the season before this when I was treated for Thyroid cancer.
‘So, as I spend time now recovering and rebuilding again – I just wanted to thank my family & friends for their rock solid support, my colleagues at Sky for their patience allowing me the time to heal, and our wonderful NHS for their extraordinary kindness and care.
‘And of course you Will Still just for being you & being there for me.’
Saunders is the girlfriend of football manager Will Still who is currently in charge of French Ligue 1 side Lens.
The pair began dating last year and Saunders went public on their relationship after the pair were seen attending matches together at Euro 2024.
After posting the update on her health, meanwhile, Saunders was inundated with messages of support from her Sky colleagues.
Commentator Pien Meulensteen commented: ‘Oh Emma, wishing you a speedy recovery and sending lots of love.’
Sky Sports News presenter Hayley McQueen added: ‘Oh my gosh Emma. So shocked to read this but sending much love to you & hoping you’re back on our screen soon!!! Lots of love x’
Becky Ives, who works for TNT Sports, wrote: ‘Oh my goodness! I’m so sorry to read this! Sending you so much love & wishing you a speedy recovery!’
Soccer Saturday’s Simon Thomas, meanwhile, posted: ‘So sorry to hear you’ve gone through this Emma. You’re missed! Look after yourself and hope you’re feeling much better soon x’
Emma Paton, Clinton Morrison and Ben Foster were also among those to comment on the post.