Micah Richards learned that his father Lincoln had died just before attending the BBC’s England v Argentina broadcast. The great critic decided to continue the show in honor of his late father.
Richards released a heartfelt statement on Instagram, writing: “Shortly before today’s broadcast, we received the sad news that our father Lincoln had passed away. His death was unexpected and he left us far too soon.
“He was my biggest fan and never missed a game my whole life. When I was a kid he took me everywhere I wanted to go and during my professional career he was the proudest parent. It was very rare that he wasn’t by my side.”
“I know how much it means to watch England’s World Cup matches at home, and how this experience is like nothing else and brings families together across generations. Especially as a proud old-school Yorkshireman, Dad would have wanted this program to be broadcast tonight, and that’s what happened.”
“Today, I think of my brothers and my entire family as I remember my father, Lincoln, who was my hero and inspiration.”
Tributes have been pouring in for Richards from across the sporting community. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, who works with Richards at CBS, was one of the first to react.
“Sending love to you and your entire family,” he said.
Joe Hart, who worked with Richards on the BBC on Wednesday night, said: “Sending love to Meeks… We’re here for you all. Rest in peace Lincoln.”
Juan Mata said: “I’m sorry to have lost Mika.” Former England international Jill Scott added: “Thinking of you and your family Micah.”
Former F1 champion Jenson Button said: “I will pray for my brother. I am sorry for his loss.”
Richards has previously spoken about the huge influence his father had on his career path, and credits him with keeping him calm. “‘I grew up in Chapeltown, a run-down area of Leeds,” Richards said in 2007.
“There were drugs and fighting and all sorts of things. There’s a time when you’re 15 or 16 that you want to get involved in that. There was definitely a temptation, but I held back.
“I was able to cope with everything that was thrown at me. I owe it to my father. He raised me well. My father is a strong character. He is very principled. He is a Rastafarian. He set standards for me.”
“It’s great to have someone like that behind me, but at the same time I learned how to be my own man. My dad has always been here for me. He’s only missed one game that I’ve ever played, and that was my debut at Arsenal, when I wasn’t supposed to be in the team.”
