ESPN have released a statement over the real reason Molly Qerim abruptly left First Take and the network.

Qerim spent 19 years at ESPN and a decade hosting First Take.

She took to social media last week to confirm her exit , but she will remain on the show for the remainder of the year.

Sources told The US Sun that Fox have offered Qerim a $2 million contract for three years.

ESPN are yet to announce her replacement, but has said they will trial presenters over the coming months .

Shae Cornette is currently being touted as the favourite to take over, but a number of names are in the mix.

Speaking to The Athletic, ESPN President of Content Burke Magnus discussed his surprise at Qerim's decision to leave.

He said, "Molly Qerim is a wonderful person and an unbelievable teammate

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