Steed Malbranque

Former Sunderland midfielder Steed Malbranque has spoken out to reassure supporters with concerns about the health of his young family.

False reports at the weekend claimed the 31 year-old has a seriously ill son and Malbranque has moved to allay supporters' fears in a statement issued by London solicitors Thomas Cooper, confirming he does not have a son and that no member of his immediate family is ill.
In the statement, Malbranque's agent, Sebastien Boisseau, said: "Steed has read with concern the recent stories currently circulating about him and his family.
"He would like to reassure all of his friends in England and throughout world football that these stories are wholly without foundation.
"Steed does not have a son and his immediate family are all in good health. Steed does not know the origin of these stories but would like to stress that they are without merit.
"He trusts that they will now cease immediately."
Malbranque, who left Sunderland to return to France last month, joining Ligue 1 side Saint-Étienne, has also thanked Sunderland supporters for their concern and warm wishes in the statement.
Boisseau added: "Despite the fact that the reports are untrue, Steed is very appreciative of the concern Sunderland supporters have shown and he would like to thank them for the many warm and thoughtful messages he has received."