Teen gets message of support from Man Utd star

England and Manchester United footballer Harry Maguire has sent a message to a 14-year-old who was diagnosed with a brain tumour at the end of last month.

Max from Corby, Northamptonshire, went into hospital just six days after his birthday and his family said he was "considered incurable".

They have since raised more than £140,000 towards treatment in Germany, as well as being given gifts including a Manchester United FA Cup shirt signed by Bryan Robson.

In the video to Max, Maguire said: "From everyone at Manchester United we want to send you our love and support.

"I know it's been a difficult time, but you're doing really well."

His mother Jackie said Max, a Manchester United fan, "lives and breathes football" and the video had put the "biggest smile" on his face.

Max's family said he suffered an unexpected seizure on 27 November, and after being taken to Kettering General Hospital was transferred to Nottingham Queen's Medical Centre, where he is receiving treatment.

Speaking to BBC Radio Northampton, Jackie said Max was "strong as an Ox [and] keeping the whole family together with his attitude toward this".

She said she had spoke to other parents in a similar situation who had taken their children to Germany to receive a treatment not available in UK which had been "able to extend their [children's] lives".

Jackie said the family had been "absolutely blown away" by the donations and the amount of support shown.

"Words will never be able to explain how thankful we are," she said.

She added Max was "very aware of what is going on" with his condition.

"He's amazing in the way he says 'there is nothing to worry about mum, I'm in the best place and if I'm not worried you shouldn't be worried'", Jackie said.

But she added that for the family "it feels like our world has fallen apart".

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