Natalie Sawyer breaks silence on Sky Sports News departure

She left the company this week after 18 years.

Natalie Sawyer has spoken for the first time after her sudden departure from Sky Sports News this week. The popular presenter and newsreader, 38, completed her last shift on Wednesday but left in a cloud of mystery after no mention of her departure was made on-air, in contrast to how former presenters have left in the past. Sawyer is reportedly exploring further opportunities in the industry and has thanked fans for their kind messages on social media over the past few days. https://twitter.com/nataliesawyer/status/980113888254578688

"Been away the last few days, have I missed anything??... Seriously, thank you for all your kind messages. It’s not been an easy couple of weeks but your support has meant the world to me. Keep watching SSN - there are some amazing people there! Hopefully see you all soon x."

Sky issued a statement on Thursday to acknowledge Sawyer's departure. “We’d like to thank Natalie for her many years of great service to Sky Sports and we wish her all the best in the future," it read. The decision not to renew her contract has been met with strong derision, with many slamming Sky Sports over dumping a talented, well-liked and competent newsreader.