Sky Sports presenter Emma Saunders has revealed she is battling a brain infection following her treatment for thyroid cancer.

Saunders, who had to take time off work during the early part of the 2024-25 season due to her cancer treatment, shared an update on Instagram: "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.

"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 - I just wanted to thank my family and 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."

Saunders also thanked her partner, football manager Will Still, "just for being you and being there for me".

Fellow Sky Sports presenter Pien Meulensteen sent well wishes, writing: "Oh Emma, wishing you a speedy recovery and sending lots of love."

Soccer Saturday host Simon Thomas added: "So sorry to hear you've gone through this Emma. You're missed! Look after yourself and hope you're feeling much better soon."

Messages of support have flooded in for Saunders from the football community after news of her illness emerged. Former striker and pundit Chris Iwelumo wrote: "Sending love and positivity Emma, get well soon!" Ex-Spurs keeper Heurelho Gomes also reached out, posting: "Oh Emma sorry to hear this, my prayers are for you to be 100% fine very soon."

Saunders, a familiar face on Sky Sports' football coverage, particularly with EFL broadcasts, has also worked on Premier League programmes and interviewed many top players.

Her relationship with manager Still was made public in 2024, and they've been active in sharing their life together on social media. Still made a name for himself at Reims before moving to Lens.

Hayley McQueen, a staple of Sky Sports News, was equally shocked, adding: "Oh my gosh Emma. So shocked to read this but sending much love to you and hoping you're back on our screen soon! ! ! Lots of love x".

This article originally appeared on Mirror