Chelsea's first black footballer Paul Canoville in hospital

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.'

Last year Canoville offered to act as a mediator in the Enzo Fernandez racism row, saying he was open to helping the club.

There was fury inside of the Chelsea squad after Fernandez streamed a video on his Instagram showing himself and other members of the Argentinian national team singing an offensive song about France after their Copa America triumph.

The 23-year-old apologised privately to his fellow players and has since been restored as one of their most important players.

In a statement released by his foundation, Canoville said: 'There is no room for discrimination of any kind in our society, especially in the sport we all love.

'My personal experiences of racism and hatred are well known, but I have always said that the way forward is through education and understanding.

'Given my continued love and support for Chelsea Football Club and the involvement of one of our players in the incident, I have offered to help support any restorative process that might now take place.

'Through my Foundation, I aim to help people learn through the lens of my experiences before, during and after the abuse I received while playing football, including being able to offer forgiveness where deserved.'

More to follow.