Chelsea’s first black footballer Paul Canoville is in hospital after a ‘serious decline in physical health’.
Canoville, 63, played for the Blues between 1981 and 1986 and helped them to the Second Division title in 1983-84.
He defied racist abuse from elements of the team’s fanbase and eventually became a club ambassador.
The ex-winger, who in his 2008 autobiography said he had fathered 11 children via 10 different women, has also suffered a ‘significant toll’ on his ‘mental well-being’.
A statement from the CEO of his foundation read: ‘It is with a heavy heart that I share an update on the health of our Founder, Paul Canoville.
‘Paul is currently in hospital due to a serious decline in his physical health, which has also taken a significant toll on his mental well-being. As someone who has overcome extraordinary challenges throughout his life, Paul remains determined — but he now needs time, care, and space to recover.
‘His recent absence from school visits and, most heartbreakingly, the Show Racism the Red Card reception at Downing Street earlier this week, has been deeply upsetting for him. We also want to prepare friends and supporters that Paul is very unlikely to attend the premiere of the new documentary about his life tomorrow evening (Thursday) at Regent Street Cinema — something he had been immensely looking forward to.
‘Out of respect for his need to rest and heal, we kindly ask that people refrain from contacting Paul directly at this time. Any messages of support can be shared as comments on our social posts and we will ensure Paul sees these once well enough.’
More to follow.
