Ian Wright recalls “worrying” moment Laura Woods collapsed on air during England coverage | OneFootball

Ian Wright has spoken about the “worrying” moment Laura Woods collapsed live on ITV during the build-up to England against Ghana.

What happened to Laura Woods?

The incident happened pitchside at St Mary’s in Southampton, where Woods was presenting the pre-match show with Wright and Anita Asante.

As she began her analysis, she suddenly lost her footing and both pundits reacted quickly to catch her before she hit the ground.

ITV moved fast to protect Woods and cut the broadcast to a shot of the teams warming up, followed by a commercial break.

When the programme returned Katie Shanahan was in place of Woods and informed viewers that the presenter had been taken ill. Shanahan explained: “‘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.”

The match continued with England earning a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Lucia Kendall and Alessia Russo, but for many watching, the main concern remained Woods’ wellbeing.

What has Ian Wright said about Laura Woods?

Speaking on The Overlap alongside Gary Neville, Roy Keane, Jamie Carragher and Jill Scott, Wright described how alarming the moment had been for everyone on set.

He reassured viewers that he had already spoken to Woods. Wright said: “She’s fine. I got a message from her this morning. It was worrying at the time but she’s fine. People have been really nice about it. I’m glad she’s okay.”

Scott also shared what she had been told about Woods’ condition. The former England international said: “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.”

Ian Wright came to Laura Woods’ aid after the TV presenter collapsed

Despite the seriousness of the situation, the group ended the discussion with some light-hearted humour

Keane joked: “I’m guessing she’s not the first woman to fall into your arms Ian. That’s just your knack.

“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.”

Woods offers reassurance after treatment

Following the match, Woods released her own statement on X, confirming she had been checked by paramedics at the stadium.

She admitted she was embarrassed by the moment but emphasised she was recovering well. She wrote: “Gosh that was a bit weird. Sorry to worry everyone, I’m OK. The wonderful paramedics at Saints have said it’s probably a virus, just need a bit of rest and hydration.

“I’m really embarrassed that happened on TV but a big thank you to my colleagues at ITV who have really looked after me tonight. And to Wrighty and Neets for catching me.”

It is expected that Woods will take a short break from broadcasting while she rests. 

She also presents Champions League coverage for TNT and both the network and fans sent messages of support in the hours after the incident.

Widely regarded as one of the most respected presenters in football, Woods continues to be a key figure in the sport and is expected to return once she has fully recovered.