Gills chairman Paul Scally was at the centre of a bizarre health scare today after a friend claimed he had been rushed to hospital and undergone emergency heart surgery.

David Gold, chairman of West Ham, tweeted to say he wished his friend well after an emergency operation.

But calls to the football club today were met with denials.

Mr Gold later removed the tweet, and then moments later sent out a new one saying "Great news. My friend Paul Scally is well and will be at the match tomorrow."

Mr Scally took over the League One club in 1995 for the sum of £1, taking it out of administration shortly before they would have been placed in liquidation.

A statement issued by the club this morning reiterated their denial.

It said: "Contrary to internet speculation this morning, Gillingham FC chairman Paul Scally has not been rushed to hospital due to ill health.

"The club can confirm that the chairman is fit and well and is currently at home having numerous business meetings as planned.

"The false information was the result of a misunderstanding.

"Furthermore, the chairman will be attending Saturday's Sky Bet League One home fixture against Northampton Town as usual."