Shaughna Phillips has responded to claims that she was secretly in a relationship with someone in the outside world during her time on Love Island. 

The 25-year-old appeared as a contestant in the winter series of ITV2’s Love Island in January 2020 as a singleton looking for love in the South African villa. 

Shaughna became a firm favourite with viewers and won support from the nation after being dumped by love interest Callum Jones when he returned from Casa Amor. 

However over the weekend, Shaughna sparked speculation she has been in a long-term relationship this whole time after posting a cryptic caption alongside a photo of herself lounging with a mystery man on holiday. 

In the comment, Shaughna wrote: ‘Starting 2021 with the same people I started 2020 with, and feeling very lucky ❤️,’ leading many to assume she was in a relationship at the beginning of last year. 

Addressing the controversy, a rep for Shaughna told Metro.co.uk: ‘Over the past few weeks Shaughna has met someone who she is currently dating.

‘Prior to this Shaughna has been single since before her appearance on Love Island – so in total has been single for two years until now.

‘Love Island has given Shaughna many fantastic commercial opportunities which she is so very grateful for.’ 

Shortly after her stint in Love Island, it emerged that Shaughna had also appeared on Celebs Go Dating in 2019 before her sharp rise to fame.

After the TV star posted the photo with her new man, one follower commented: ‘Boyfriend of 2 years? Weren’t you on celebs go dating recently?’ 

Another follower wondered: ‘Confused how she can have a boyfriend of two years what with Celebs Go Dating and Love Island.’ 

Shaughna reportedly responded in the comments: ‘If you had the ability to potentially change your mum’s/parents’ life, would you?

‘For me, personally, being able to help my mum in anything she financially would need outweighed ANY other scenario. 

‘That’s the relationship that means everything to me, and I would do anything to give her the life she deserves. We may not agree, but I hope you understand my decisions.’ 

Metro.co.uk has contacted Shaughna’s reps for comment.

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