Jermaine Jenas and his wife Ellie Penfold have announced their separation after 16 years together.
Ellie shared the news on social media, stating: "I never imagined I would have to share something so personal with the public, but given the situation, I feel it's necessary."
The couple, who have four children together, have decided to "part ways" but will "remain friends and continue to co-parent," according to her statement.
In her full statement, Ellie wrote: "After 16 years together and 4 wonderful children, Jermaine and I have decided to part ways. We will remain friends and continue to co-parent."
Jermaine Jenas' wife Ellie Pinfold has announced that they have split up
PA
The announcement was made via her Instagram story on Tuesday.
The couple have requested privacy during this difficult period, with Ellie adding: "We kindly ask that you respect our children's privacy during this challenging time."
Jermaine, 42, has not yet publicly commented on the separation.
Jenas is a former footballer who played for clubs including Tottenham Hotspur during his career.
He later became a prominent BBC presenter, working on shows including Match of the Day and The One Show.
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The 42-year-old father-of-four had built a successful broadcasting career following his retirement from professional football.
The couple had been together for nearly two decades before announcing their separation.
The split comes just months after Jenas was sacked by the BBC in August following allegations of workplace misconduct.
The former presenter was dropped by the channel amid claims he sent explicit texts to two female employees.
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Jermaine Jenas was sacked by the BBC after a texting scandal
PA
At the time of the scandal, it was reported that Jenas had hoped to work through his marital troubles with Ellie.
Ellie concluded her statement with a simple "Thank you, Ellie" as she requested privacy for their family.
The couple's four children remain their priority as they navigate this separation.
Neither Jermaine nor Ellie have shared further details about the circumstances of their split.
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