Emmerdale‘s Jacob Sugden is double-crossed by a colleague tonight as his problems with Dr Todd threaten to get worse.

As Jacob struggles to impress his demanding new mentor, a sneaky move from workmate Rich has the potential to fan the flames.

In tonight’s episode, there’s an update on the research project that has pushed Jacob to breaking point in recent days.

Jacob worked morning, noon and night to come up with a research proposal that would meet Dr Todd’s expectations – neglecting his relationship with his wife Sarah in the process. However, if he was expecting any credit for his dedicated efforts, he can think again.

During a private chat at the hospital, Rich tells Jacob: “If Todd had done that to me, I don’t think I’d be able to keep quiet. She’s passed off your work as hers. I mean, if you can’t trust her with that, what else can’t you trust?”

Jacob refuses to make a fuss over the issue, despite Rich’s suggestions that he’s bottling up his real feelings. He points out that if he complains, Todd could make life even harder for him at work.

Shortly afterwards, though, Rich stirs up trouble by giving Todd a very different version of the conversation – falsely making out that Jacob has been venting about her.

Todd replies: “I appreciate you bringing the matter to my attention. Transparency is everything…”

Will Todd take revenge against Jacob after Rich’s sly behaviour?

Back in February, Emmerdale announced a workplace bullying storyline following Todd’s return to the show.

“The storyline will delve into Jacob’s struggle to manage his work-life balance under the immense pressure of his overbearing boss,” a statement from the show explained.

“The stakes are raised further when Dr Todd installs herself in the village, blurring the lines between Jacob’s professional and private life.”