Strictly: Dan Walker praises Ugo Monye after elimination
The BBC Breakfast presenter chatted to co-host Sally Nugent about his impressive Viennese Waltz with professional partner Nadiya Bychkova on Monday morning. Dan Walker also paid tribute to Ugo and Oti Mabuse, who were sent home by Strictly Come Dancing voters, admitting he was "glad" the sports presenter could take a break after struggling with health problems throughout the competition.
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Ugo returned to Strictly after taking a break due to agonising back pain which left him unable to stand up straight.
The former rugby union player sustained the injury during his sporting career, and has secretly been battling the pain during his time on the BBC dance show.
On the BBC Breakfast show, fellow celeb Dan revealed he was relieved Ugo could now rest up and take care of his injury.
He explained: “In some ways, I’m glad that he doesn’t have to dance anymore because I don’t want him to get hurt.”
READ MORE: Oti Mabuse addresses Ugo Monye’s injury as couple booted off Strictly
Ugo was forced to miss a week’s training after his back pains demanded a visit to the hospital and painful injections to his spine.
Although he was in better shape on Saturday, Dan was happy his co-star can now enjoy a well-earned rest from the show.
“He’s been brilliant,” he said on Monday’s Breakfast programme. “And Oti’s done a great job with him.
“Ugo’s had all sorts of back problems during his career. He was fit to do the programme, but some of the stuff… it is a strain on your body.”