ITV bosses ‘lining up star duo to become the new Holly and Phil’ on This Morning – as troubled show faces rocky future

ITV bosses are reportedly lining up a star duo to become the next Holly and Phil on This Morning.

It’s believed Kate Garraway and Ben Shephard could take their places on the troubled breakfast show.

Willoughby sensationally quit her presenting role after 14 years on Tuesday.

Her surprise exit came after a turbulent year for the queen of daytime TV.

She and Philip Schofield were blasted over jumping the queue to see Her Majesty lying-in-state at Westminster Hall in September last year.

Then, in May came the shock revelation that Holly's co-star Schofield had had an affair with a young employee, which later saw him resign from the show.

But now ITV sources say bosses believe Garraway and Shephard could be the key to getting the show back on track.

They told : “Ben and Kate are adored by the public when they host together. Fans love them.

“While the bosses love Alison Hammond and Josie Gibson, they know they need someone more heavyweight. Kate is a journalist yet is also funny and warm.”

In an Instagram post on Tuesday, Holly wrote: "I have let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning. To everyone who has ever worked on the show over the years, thank you so so much.

"This is such a difficult goodbye, you are incredible and I forever will be proud of what we've done together.I will not be returning to This Morning.

"Thank you to everyone at ITV for being supportive. To every guest who has sat on our sofa, thank you.

"Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers. You've been so loyal so supportive and the very best company every day.

"Richard and Judy said 'we only look after this show, it will always belong to the viewers'.

"It's been an honour to just be part of its story and I know this story has many chapters left to go.

"Sadly, however, I now feel I have to make this decision for me and my family. I will miss you all so much. Holly."

Following Holly's shocking resignation, Kevin Lygo, Managing Director, Media and Entertainment, ITV said: ";We are sad that Holly is leaving This Morning, but respect her decision which we know will have been extremely difficult for her to make.

"Holly is one of the best loved, respected and most accomplished broadcasters in the UK.

"She has been at the heart of This Morning for the past 14 years, and she is adored by our viewers. Holly has brought her unique brand of warmth, energy, humour and fun to one of the country’s most popular daytime shows, and everyone on the programme will miss her enormously.

"She remains a much loved member of the ITV family and we look forward to continuing to work with her in the future."