'Life took a bit of an unexpected turn' - Sky Sports presenter reveals shock brain infection diagnosis after overcoming thyroid cancer as she steps away from presenting duties

Emma Saunders posted on social media that she was treated for thyroid cancer at the start of the 2024/25 season. Now, she has said "life took a bit of an unexpected turn" as she recovers from a brain infection called encephalitis.

She wrote on Instagram from her hospital bed: "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. 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 again - I just wanted to thank my family & 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. And of course you @wrstill just for being you & being there for me."

Saunders also thanked boyfriend and Lens manager Will Still for his support during this difficult time. She and Still are sure to hope the presenter is back fit and healthy as soon as possible.

Saunders, who is a lifelong Watford fan, will likely be keeping a keen eye on how the Hornets get on against Millwall in the Championship on Saturday.