SOCCER
Pelé undergoes successful surgery to remove tumour
Pelé has provided a medical update on his health, having spent time in hospital to undergo an operation to have a tumour removed.
Pelé has revealed that last week he underwent surgery to remove a tumour in his large intestine.
The Brazil legend, who won three World Cups during his playing career, had previously taken to Instagram to deny claims he had fainted, posting he was "in very good health" after "routine exams".
Pelé on the road to recovery
However, O Rei reportedly remained in hospital and on Monday explained why he had required medical attention.
"Last Saturday I underwent surgery to remove a suspicious lesion in the right colon," the 80-year-old wrote on his social media page. "The tumour was identified during the tests I mentioned last week. Fortunately, I'm used to celebrating great victories alongside you. I will face this match with a smile on my face, a lot of optimism and joy for living surrounded by the love of my family and friends."