Sick Wilkins rejects drink rumours

Former Fulham coach Ray Wilkins has announced he is struggling with ulcerative colitis in order to dispel rumours of a drinking problem.

The 57-year-old’s departure from Craven Cottage was made official on Tuesday night, with head coach Rene Meulensteen and technical director Alan Curbishley also making way for new manager Felix Magath and his backroom staff.

Wilkins, who was last year banned from driving for three years after being convicted of drink-driving, remained in the dressing room after half-time in last week’s home defeat to Liverpool and admitted he can sometimes look “worse for wear” in the dug-out.