Terry Yorath: Gabby Logan exits Match of the Day mid-show as news of dad’s death emerges

The TV star, who is married to former Scottish rugby player Kenny Logan, was presenting the Premier League highlights before she was replaced 20 minutes into the football programme with broadcaster Mark Chapman.

During the broadcast, Mr Chapman said: “Sadly, Gabby has got a family emergency that 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.”

It has since been confirmed that Ms Logan’s father, the former Leeds and Wales midfielder Terry Yorath, has died at the age of 75 following a short illness.

Ms Logan, 52, and her siblings have paid tribute to their father in a statement released on behalf of the family: “To most he was a revered footballing hero, but to us he was Dad; a quiet, kind and gentle man.

“Our hearts are broken but we take comfort knowing that he will be reunited with our brother, Daniel.”

Daniel, one of Yorath’s four children, died aged 15 in 1992 from a genetic heart condition after playing football in the garden with his dad.

Mr Yorath was born in Cardiff and went on to play a big part in the Leeds team under Don Revie, winning the First Division title, before spells with Coventry, Tottenham and Bradford.

He also won 59 caps for Wales.

Mr Yorath was player-assistant coach for Bradford and present at Valley Parade in 1985 when a fire killed 56 people.

After finishing his playing career with Swansea, Yorath moved into management in 1986 with the same club before taking charge of Wales, Bradford, Cardiff, Lebanon, Sheffield Wednesday and Margate.

He led Swansea to promotion from the Fourth Division in 1988 and narrowly missed out on guiding Wales to the 1994 World Cup after losing to Romania.

“Everyone at Leeds United is devastated to learn of the passing of club legend Terry Yorath,” his former club said in a statement. “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Terry’s family, friends and former team-mates at this incredibly sad time.”

The Welsh FA added: “The FAW is deeply saddened to learn of Terry Yorath’s passing. The thoughts of everyone connected to the association are with Terry’s family, friends and loved ones.”

Match of the Day has since paid tribute in a post on X and said: “Leeds and Wales legend Terry Yorath has passed away, aged 75.

“The BBC sends its condolences to all the family, including his daughter Gabby Logan.”

Gabby Logan replaced Gary Lineker on the flagship football programme last year, following his departure from the show.

She was recently also made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the King’s New Year Honours list for her services to broadcasting and to charity.