Lancashire police 'extremely concerned' for missing Clarke Carlisle

Lancashire Police have said they are "extremely concerned" for former Professional Footballers' Association chairman Clarke Carlisle after he was reported missing.

Reports of Carlisle's disappearance first emerged on social media on Friday morning.

The former QPR, Burnley and Leeds defender, who made more than 500 appearances for nine clubs during his playing career from 1997 to 2013, has a history of mental illness.

Detective chief inspector Steve Holgate said: "We are extremely concerned about Clarke and we would urge anyone who sees him or knows where he is to get in touch with us.

"We would also appeal directly to Clarke himself to contact us if he sees this appeal to let us know he is safe."