Gabby Logan forced to leave Match of the Day mid-show due to family emergency

Logan had set up Wednesday evening's Bournemouth vs Spurs highlights package after referencing the tragic death of former Spurs ace Martin Chivers earlier on.

She had also introduced viewers to Manchester City vs Brighton.

But when cameras returned to the BBC studio in Salford, she had gone.

The 52-year-old departed early due to a family emergency.

Match of the Day producers rapidly dialled in fellow host Mark Chapman to take over.

He had been presenting a radio show at the time.

Chapman told MOTD watchers: "We'll talk about that game [Manchester City v Brighton] in just a moment.

"Sadly, Gabby has got a family emergency which she's had to rush off and deal with.

"So she's gone to do that and I've come from the radio to finish the show."

After Logan rushed off, MOTD fans were quick to offer their support online.

One, Frank Maguire, said on social media: "Hope Gabby Logan's family emergency is ok. Chappers is such a talent, how many people could jump off radio and straight onto MOTD."

Anoher offered their best wishes to the presenting pair, saying: "Mark Chapman is wildly underrated. An absolutely brilliant broadcaster - proving it yet again tonight.

"Best wishes to Gabby Logan, hopefully the family emergency isn’t owt traumatic."

Logan had initially been joined by Stephen Warnock and Danny Murphy before Chapman stepped in.

The duo usually share their on-air duties alongside Sky Sports's Kelly Cates - with the former selected to lead analysis for the midweek fixtures.

Logan had hosted MOTD last Sunday, while Chapman led the show on Saturday the previous day.