The former Liverpool player was forced to retire from football after his diagnosis in 2018
Stephen Darby was diagnosed with MND in 2018
Stephen Darby was diagnosed with MND in 2018(Image: Instagram/ Steph Houghton)
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Stephen Darby and Steph Houghton have announced they are expecting their first child. The former Liverpool player was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2018 and has been open about his battle with the life-changing condition.
The 37-year-old tied the knot with the former Lioness in June 2018, just three months before his diagnosis. Stephen has been living with MND for almost eight years, regularly sharing insights into his journey through the Darby Rimmer Foundation charity, which he co-founded with his close friend Chris Rimmer to raise funds and awareness.
Stephen joined the Liverpool Academy in 2006 before making his senior debut in 2008. Later in his career he played for Bradford City. His wife Steph is former captain of the England Women's team.
Stephen Darby and Steph Houghton are expecting their first child
Stephen Darby and Steph Houghton are expecting their first child(Image: Instagram/ Steph Houghton)
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The couple have now announced they are set to welcome their first child into the world. They shared an adorable post on social media to mark the special news.
Steph shared an aesthetic photo to her 259,000 followers on Instagram. In the snap was a heart-shaped cake with the words "Oh baby" piped on top.
The post also featured their baby scan photos, before the 38-year-old added the caption: "Half of You. Half of Me. Our family will soon be three! Baby Darby 2026."
The couple's announcement was liked by over 70,000 people, including familiar names Helen Skelton, Charlotte Hawkins and Lindsey Burrow.
The wife of the late Rob Burrow also added to the comments to send her support. Lindsey said: "Ahh this is amazing news huge congratulations xxx." The former Leeds Rhinos player died from MND in 2024 after a four-year battle.
Other stars took to the comments to send their congratulations to Steph and Stephen.
Former Lioness and TV Star Jill Scott said: "The best news can't wait for a cuddle already xxx." Former footballer Karen Carney, who recently won the most recent series of Strictly Come Dancing, said: "Amazing amazing" with red love heart emojis.
Manchester City star Jack Grealish, who spent last season on loan at Everton, said: "Ahhh unbelievable!! So happy for you both."
Good Morning Britain presenter Charlotte Hawkins said: "Wonderful news! So special."
Stephen Darby was diagnosed with MND in 2018, which forced him to retire from professional football. MND progressively impairs the brain and nervous system, and there is currently no cure.
However, there are certain treatments that can help manage its effects on everyday life.
According to the MND Association, as many as 5,000 adults in the UK could be living with the disease at any one time.