Natalie Sawyer reveals recent struggles after silent treatment over Sky Sports News exit

NATALIE SAWYER has thanked fans for their support during a tough period in which she left Sky Sports News.

The journalist finished her final shift on Thursday, calling an end to 18 years on the show.

Sky Sports

Sawyer, who will now pursue other challenges, made no farewells and her departure was not mentioned.

But today the SunSport columnist tweeted: “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.”

Sawyer was one of the longest serving reporters on Sky Sports News and was promoted to become the face of Transfer Deadline Day alongside co-presenter Jim White.

PA:Empics Sport

Colleagues are thought to be upset by her shock exit.

The Daily Mail claim Sawyer was denied a new contract by Sky Sports because she wanted more opportunity away from the autocue.

Sawyer continued: “Keep watching SSN – there are some amazing people there!

“Hopefully see you all soon x”

Supportive comments from several of Sawyer’s 276,000 Twitter following came in response to her tweet.

Mark Hillman wrote: “Gutted to see you go Natalie definitely Sky Sports loss.”

Michael Greco added: “We love you Natalie. You’ll always work whatever the weather.”

And user Brian Moore even suggested she become part of a double act with Declan Donnelly following co-presenter Ant McPartlin’s drink driving shame.

He joked: “You could ask ITV about Saturday Night Takeaway, not such a big stretch… Nat and Dec’s etc etc… Just a thought ”

Sky Sports yesterday confirmed: “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.”

Sawyer was previously married to Sky Sports News colleague Sam Matterface and together they have a son called Sawyer who was born in 2012.

The pair divorced in 2014.