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Football Insider

Remembering Terry Yorath: A Tribute to Gabby Logan’s Beloved Father

Gabby Logan was unexpectedly replaced mid-show during Match of the Day due to a family emergency, as news broke of her father Terry Yorath's passing at the age of 75. Let's take a moment to reflect on Yorath's illustrious career in football and the legacy he leaves behind.

Remembering Terry Yorath: A Tribute to Gabby Logan’s Beloved Father

Gabby Logan was forced to vacate her Match of the Day presenting post mid-show on January 7, with it being announced that her father Terry Yorath has sadly passed away at the age of 75. Logan had fronted the latest broadcast of the BBC’s Premier League highlights package, but was replaced by Mark Chapman following a family emergency.Logan opened a midweek instalment of Match of the Day by introducing coverage of Bournemouth’s 3-2 victory over Tottenham at the Vitality Stadium, while also paying tribute to the late Martin Chivers - with it being revealed on Wednesday that the UEFA Cup-winning Spurs legend had died at 80 years of age.Logan also guided viewers into highlights of Manchester City’s 1-1 draw with Brighton, but the 52-year-old had been substituted for Chapman - who had just finished his radio commitments - when cameras cut back to the studio.Chapman said of the unexpected switch: “We'll talk about that game [Manchester City v Brighton] in just a moment, sadly Gabby has got a family emergency which 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.”Logan had lined up alongside former Liverpool stars Stephen Warnock and Danny Murphy when Match of the Day got underway, with a busy evening of Premier League action being worked through.It has now been revealed that her father Terry has died following a short illness. Speaking on behalf of the bereaved family, his children said in a statement: “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.”Born in Cardiff, Yorath starred for the iconic Leeds team that savoured First Division title glory under Don Revie in 1974. He also spent time with Coventry, Tottenham, the Vancouver Whitecaps and Bradford in his playing days, while earning 59 caps for Wales.His managerial career included a spell in charge of his country, alongside roles with Swansea, Cardiff, Bradford, Sheffield Wednesday and the Lebanon national team.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingLogan has been sharing Match of the Day presenting duties this season with Chapman and Sky Sports host Kelly Cates. The aforementioned trio have stepped in to fill the void created by Gary Lineker’s departure, with the ex-England international striker severing ties with the BBC after 25 years.

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A Football Legend Remembered

Terry Yorath, a beloved figure in the world of football, passed away at the age of 75 following a brief illness. Known for his playing days with Leeds, Coventry, Tottenham, and his impressive 59 caps for Wales, Yorath made a lasting impact on the sport both on and off the field. His managerial career further showcased his passion and dedication to football, with stints leading both club and national teams.

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A Family Man Remembered

While many knew Terry Yorath as a revered football icon, to his family he was simply 'Dad' - a loving, kind-hearted, and gentle soul. His children, speaking on behalf of the family, expressed their profound sadness at his passing but found solace in the belief that he is now reunited with his late son, Daniel. The Yorath family's tributes to their father highlight the personal loss they are grappling with.

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Tributes and Memories

Gabby Logan, known for her sports broadcasting prowess, was visibly affected by the news of her father's passing, having to step away from her Match of the Day hosting duties. Her colleagues, Mark Chapman and the Match of the Day team, gracefully filled the gap left by Logan, showing empathy and support during a challenging time.

Published on Jan 8, 2026