BBC pundit Micah Richards has revealed he was informed of his father’s sudden death just moments before going live to cover England’s World Cup semifinal against Argentina.

The former Manchester City and England defender was working for the BBC in Atlanta on Wednesday night as England’s World Cup run came to a heartbreaking end. Despite receiving the devastating news shortly before the broadcast, Richards chose to continue with his on air duties, saying he believed it was what his father would have wanted.

Sharing an emotional tribute on Instagram after the match, Richards announced that his father, Lincoln, had died unexpectedly.

“Not long before going on air today, I received the awful news that my father Lincoln had passed away,” he wrote. “His death was unexpected, and he has left us all too soon.”

Richards described his father as the biggest supporter he ever had, recalling how Lincoln rarely missed a match throughout his football career.

“He was my greatest fan. He barely missed a game my entire life,” Richards wrote. “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. It was so rare for him to not be by my side.”

The 38-year-old explained that he decided to continue covering the World Cup because he knew how much England matches meant to families watching at home, and because he believed his father would have expected him to carry on.

“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 wrote.

“I know, particularly as a proud old school Yorkshireman, Dad would’ve wanted the show to go on this evening. And so it did.”

Richards ended the tribute by remembering his father as “my hero and inspiration” while sending his thoughts to his siblings and extended family.

The post was met with an outpouring of support from across the football world.

Jamie Carragher, who regularly works alongside Richards, wrote, “Sending love to you and all the family.”

Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart, who was part of the BBC coverage, added, “Sending love Meeks. Here for you all. RIP Lincoln.”

Juan Mata, Jill Scott and Jenson Button also shared messages of sympathy, while many fans praised Richards for carrying out his broadcasting duties despite the heartbreaking circumstances.

Richards has often spoken about the influence his father had on his life and career. In a 2007 interview, he credited Lincoln with helping him stay focused while growing up in Chapeltown, Leeds.

“There was definitely a temptation but I stayed grounded,” Richards said. “That’s down to Dad. He’s brought me up well.”

He described his father as “a strong character” who set high standards and was always there to support him.

“Dad’s always been here for me,” Richards said at the time. “He has missed only one game I have ever played, and that was my debut at Arsenal when I wasn’t even supposed to be in the squad.”