Pele will be unable to attend a London tribute dinner in his honour after he collapsed and was taken to hospital in Brazil with severe exhaustion.

The football Writers’ Association said in a statement that the three-time World Cup winner with Brazil, now aged 77, would not be able to come to Sunday’s event.

“In the early hours of Thursday morning, Pele collapsed and was taken to hospital in Brazil where he has undergone a series of tests which appear to point to severe exhaustion. He remains on fluids while doctors monitor his recovery,” the statement read.

“Thankfully, there is no suggestion of anything more serious than exhaustion and everybody at the football Writers’ Association wishes Pele a swift and full recovery.”