Football icon Pele back in hospital for colon tumour treatment months after surgery

Pele, 81, spent close to a month in hospital back in September when he underwent surgery to have a colon tumour removed.

The Brazilian three-time World Cup winner has now returned to the Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo for follow-up treatment.

Early news is positive with Pele reported to be in stable condition and he is expected to be discharged in the next few days.

Pele's medical team said he was in hospital, 'for follow-up treatment of the colon tumour identified in September this year'.

A statement added: "The patient is stable, and is expected to be released in the coming days."

A tumour was found on Pele's right colon during routine checks in August and after surgery he spent a brief time in intensive care before returning home to Guaruja.

A statement from the football legend last month read: "Friends, it's been a while since we talked about this.

"I want to let you know that I'm fine. I feel better every day. I don't think even the mask for my protection can hide my happiness.

"Thank you very much to all of you who send me good energy daily."