Topics: Ian Wright, Laura Woods, England, Womens Football
Ian Wright has admitted he was 'worried' for Laura Woods after the presenter collapsed while leading television coverage of England's friendly against Ghana.
Woods, who became a new mum in January, was pitchside with pundits Ian Wright and Anita Asante on Tuesday night when she appeared to faint ahead of kick-off.
Moments later, the camera immediately cut away and there was an advert break. Woods was then replaced by Katie Shanahan when ITV returned to its coverage of the Lionesses' final game of 2025.
"As you have probably noticed, we don’t have the wonderful Laura Woods because she’s just been taken ill but she’s in very good hands so I’m stepping in at late notice," said Shanahan.
Advert
Woods later provided an update and revealed that she had "probably" been battling a virus.
"I’m really embarrassed that happened on TV," she added on Instagram. "But a big thank you to my colleagues at ITV who have really looked after me tonight. And to Wright & Neets for catching me and sorry again.”
Wright has since broken his silence on the incident. Asked for an update while appearing on The Overlap podcast alongside Gary Neville, Roy Keane, Jamie Carragher and Jill Scott, the former Arsenal striker confirmed she is now okay.
“She’s fine. I got a message from her this morning," said Wright. "It was worrying at the time but she’s fine. People have been really nice about it. I’m glad she’s okay.”
Jill Scott added: “She said that she thinks she’s got a virus but it must have been horrible for that to happen, on live TV as well.”
After hearing the positive update on Woods' condition, Roy Keane delivered a lighthearted comment on Wright's attempt to catch the presenter after fainting.
“I’m guessing she’s not the first woman to fall into your arms Ian, that’s just your knack," he said.
Keane added: "She’s okay and that’s all that matters, that’s the most important thing, obviously. You’ll get a knighthood or an award for that, Wrighty.”
After the incident, Woods’ fiancée Adam Collard released a statement following concern from fans. “Laura is all ok and with the right people," he said. "Thank you for all of your kind messages.”
