Representatives of former Fulham, Tottenham Hotspur and Sunderland midfielder Steed Malbranque have announced that he has not retired from football to care for an ill family member.

Reports from France over the weekend suggested that the 31-year-old had left current club St Etienne to care for his young son, who had been diagnosed with cancer.

However, in a statement released to Press Association Sport, solicitors working on behalf of Malbranque's agent have revealed that the Frenchman does not have a son and that no member of his immediate family are unwell.

"Steed has read with concern the recent stories currently circulating about him and his family," read the statement which as issued by London-based solicitors Thomas Cooper.

"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."

Malbranque joined St Etienne in the summer after a ten-year stay in England.