Broadcaster and presenter Gabby Logan has returned to work following a week's absence from her television and radio commitments after the death of her father, the former footballer Terry Yorath.
A Difficult Week and an Emotional Return
Logan, 52, was back at the Global Studios in London's Leicester Square on Thursday morning to record her podcast, The Sports Agents, alongside co-host Mark Chapman. Her return comes after what she described as 'a very emotional few days' and a tough week for her family.
Terry Yorath, who played for Leeds United and Wales, passed away on January 7 at the age of 75 following a short illness. His death prompted Logan to leave her hosting role on Match Of The Day early the previous Wednesday, citing a family emergency.
Arriving at the studio beneath an umbrella amidst torrential rain in the capital, Logan resumed her professional duties, telling Chapman she was 'glad to be back in the saddle' despite the difficult circumstances.
Football Community Provides Solace
Speaking on the podcast, Logan revealed how the football world had rallied around her family, offering immense comfort. She highlighted how the sport's sense of community had been powerfully demonstrated in the days following her father's passing.
'We have been totally overwhelmed and inundated with messages of love, support and stories about things my dad has done through his career and how he impacted lives,' she said. 'It just highlighted to me how important football is and how it connects people. Sport and football really show up in moments like this.'
She expressed gratitude to everyone who had shared memories, noting that these stories, both big and small, had provided great comfort. Logan also confirmed that Leeds United plan to pay tribute to Yorath during their Premier League home match against Fulham at Elland Road on Saturday. Yorath scored 11 goals in 199 appearances for the club between 1967 and 1976.
A Heartfelt Personal Tribute
Last week, Logan shared an extensive and moving tribute to her father on Instagram. She remembered him as a 'warrior on the football pitch' who captained both club and country, and a kind-hearted man off it.
She recounted poignant final moments, including a conversation about his preferred meal of roast potatoes with calves' liver for when he hoped to return home from St James Hospital in Leeds. Logan wrote that her father was looking forward to watching Newcastle play his beloved Leeds United before he passed.
In her tribute, she thanked him for instilling a passion for fairness and sport, and for his wicked sense of humour. She also paid tribute to hospital staff and reflected that her father was now reunited with her brother Daniel, who died at age 15.
Logan's return to the airwaves marks a resilient step forward, underpinned by the supportive network of the sporting community her father dedicated his life to.
