Fans convinced Fern Britton took swipe at old This Morning co-star Phillip Schofield

Fans are convinced that Fern Britton took a swipe at former This Morning co-star Phillip Schofield.

On Sunday, ITV confirmed that Schofield and Holly Willoughby would return the following day to present This Morning amid a rumoured feud between the duo.

Some reports have alleged that the pair’s relationship off-screen has come under strain in recent weeks.

Schofield, who recently returned to the show after taking pre-planned leave during his brother’s sex abuse trial at Exeter Crown Court last month, released a statement last week to suggest that 'the last few weeks haven’t been easy for either of us'.

Instagram/@schofe

“As I have said before, Holly is my rock. We’re the best of friends – as always, she is an incredible support on screen, behind the scenes and on the phone,” Schofield said.

“Holly has always been there for me, through thick and thin. And I’ve been there for her.

“The last few weeks haven’t been easy for either of us.”

As the pair returned to the show on Monday without addressing the rumours of their feud, fans are now convinced that ex-host Fern Britton has taken a subtle swipe at Schofield after having the 'loveliest catch up' with fellow former This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes.

She tweeted on Monday evening: “Unexpected calls from old mates are so lovely. Just had the loveliest catch up with @EamonnHolmes.

“I think we have known each other since the 80’s when we were babies [crying laughing emoji]. Shooting the breeze [three red love heart emojis].”

Fan speculation quickly began after Holmes' made some comments suggesting that Phil and Holly should win the 'special award for best actors'.

He implied they would never let their true feelings show on screen, saying: "There should have been a special award for Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby for best actors. They may or may not be together on the telly today.

ITV

"The public surely will suss that there's no chemistry, that it's a broken fit between the two of them and that This Morning does not depend on who presents it."

As a result, fans of the show have since put two and two together and assumed that there's definitely some 'shade'.

One fan joked: “Did you have a nice chat? Bet you’re both cackling over Phillip.”

“Mmmm wonder what hot topic of conversation you giggled and snorted about,” another added.

“Did you discuss things like Karma and how truth always finds a way out? I love deep and meaningful convos like that!” a third thought.

Tyla has contacted a rep for Fern Britton for comment.