Rio Ferdinand gushes about Kate Wright in emotional post about her taking care of his kids

Rio Ferdinand has gushed about how good a stepmum Kate Wright is to his three children, in a new post on social media.

The former footballer has been away from his girlfriend and his three children for a few weeks, while he was working as a commentator in Russia for the World Cup.

Now he's back, he wants to make sure Kate knows how much he appreciated her, after the Essex blonde stayed in the UK and looked after his little ones - Lorenz, 11, Tate, nine and Tia, six.

Alongside two adorable picture of the couple, he wrote on Instagram: 'Baaaaaack with this 👸🏼 Thank you for being this strong & wonderful woman you are while holding things together at home with the kids while I’ve been grafting 😉.

'There would have been loads a smiles, laughs & tears between u all but already I can see the bond between you all is stronger. They are filled with happiness now, and a big part of that's down to your love and hard work you put into them everyday. ❤ you x'.

Fans of the duo were clearly touched by the tribute, with one writing: 'Have a lump in my throat reading this, lost my mum at 7 & really touched a nerve, makes me so happy that everyone gets a second chance at happiness. Takes a special lady & a very special Dad!'

Another said: 'You deserve to be happy. Im glad u found peace your wife would be proud of your choice for her babies goodluck with the rest of your happy life together'.

A third added: 'So so happy for you all after all the heartache you have experienced it's lovely to see the love and bond you have for each other especially knowing your children are in a happy place xx I love reading both your posts'.

While Rio was away, Kate also posted on her Instagram about missing her other half. Alongside a picture of her looking gorgeous at the beach, she wrote: 'The perfect Monday with family & friends ... just missing 1 👀🤗❤️'.

The two have been together since early 2017, two years after Rio sadly lost his wife due to cancer, and Kate moved in with Rio and his children last October.

While they are not yet engaged, the 39-year-old has recently opened up about their wedding plans, saying his kids want to be involved on the special day and that they have also asked for a baby brother or sister.