Arsenal hero Ian Wright leaves ITV FA Cup coverage at half-time after mum dies

The Arsenal legend was part of the team covering the FA Cup second round clash on Sunday afternoon.

The 58-year-old had been in a good mood before the match, posing for photos with fans and also posting a picture with another person also called Ian Wright.

The pundit was reportedly told his mum, Nesta, had sadly passed away at the age of 94 just seconds before they were about to go on air.

He did not appear on the coverage of the match for the rest of the afternoon.

Presenter Mark Pougatch said at the break: "Ian, I'm afraid is

not [with us at half-time]. A family bereavement, so he has gone to

where he is most needed - with his family."

A source confirmed to The Sun that it was his mum that had passed away.

Wright opened up on the difficult upbringing and relationship he had with his mum in the Home Truths documentary that aired earlier this year. However, it was pointed out he had made peace wit her.

A friend told The Sun: "Ian would be the first to admit he had a difficult relationship with his mum, but hearing your own flesh and blood has passed away is never easy. It's upsetting news to hear for anyone."

On the pitch, Plymouth beat Rochdale 2-1 to book their place in the third round of the FA Cup.