CARDIFF legend Peter Whittingham fights for his life in the hospital at the age of 35 after an accidental fall in a pub.
South Wales police have confirmed that the former Bluebirds midfielder is alive after rumors of his death spread to social media on Tuesday evening.
It is understood that Whittingham is in critical condition at Cardiff’s Heath Hospital.
Police in South Wales on Wednesday released a statement revealing what happened after social media users speculated.
It read: “At around 10 pm on March 7, the South Wales police were called to an approved location in Barry.
“A 35-year-old man from Penarth suffered a head injury from a fall and remains at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.
“At this point, there is no evidence or suggestion of a crime, and it appears that the damage was caused by an accidental fall.
“Investigations are continuing into the circumstances of the incident.”
BLUEBIRDS LEGEND
The former playmaker has made 413 appearances for Cardiff, scoring 85 goals in a ten-year career spanning the Welsh capital.
He led the Bluebirds in the Premier League for the first time in 2013 and also assisted them in the FA Cup final in 2008 and the League Cup final in 2012.
He left the club in 2017 for Blackburn Rovers, where he has made 20 appearances.
Whittingham’s wife Amanda is currently pregnant.
He has also played for England’s U21s 17 times, as well as for Aston Villa.
Social media reports say Whittingham has died, but the latest police update suggests he’s alive, but critical.
Unconfirmed rumors claimed the former star ended up in hospital following an incident in Barry’s Park pub on March 7 – the same day as England vs Wales in the Six Nations.
But the latest police statement said it appeared to be an accident, without confirmation of any arrests.
Fans have flocked to social media to send their best wishes as Whittingham fights for his life.
One said: “I hear that my former neighbor and Cardiff City legend, Peter Whittingham, fell on the stairs and, unfortunately, is in intensive care.
“Come on, Pete, you can cross this companion because you have a young family who needs you.”
Another wrote: “Everyone is praying for Peter, I really hope he will be okay.”
A third added: “Pray for positive news and a speedy recovery for Peter Whittingham. A championship icon.”