Ex-Cardiff midfielder Peter Whittingham in hospital with head injuries

“A 35-year-old man from Penarth suffered a head injury as a result of a fall and remains at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.

“At this stage there is no evidence or suggestion of a criminal act, and it appears the injury was caused by an accidental fall.

“Enquiries are continuing into the circumstances of the incident.”

Nuneaton-born Whittingham began his career at boyhood club Aston Villa, where he made his debut in 2003 and went on to make 66 appearances.

Whittingham joined Cardiff in 2007 and played in both FA Cup and League Cup finals for the Bluebirds, as well as winning promotion to the Premier League in 2013.

He made 459 appearances and scored 98 goals for Cardiff, before finishing his career at Blackburn in 2018.

The English Football League sent a message of support to Whittingham, tweeting on their official account: “The thoughts of everyone at the EFL are with @CardiffCityFC legend Peter Whittingham.

“We’d like to wish him a speedy and full recovery.”

Cardiff’s Welsh rivals Swansea also offered their support, tweeting: “Wishing former @CardiffCityFC midfielder Peter Whittingham a speedy recovery!

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”