Leicester Confirm Riyad Mahrez's Facebook Account Hacked After Retirement Post

Leicester City have confirmed a post on Riyad Mahrez's official Facebook page announcing his retirement is the result of a hack.

The announcement was posted on Tuesday evening, with Mahrez seemingly having taken the decision to quit football on medical advice:

The post read: "After the last consultation with many doctors, I've decided to stay away from football. As my time as a football player comes to an end, I would like to say few words. I want to thank everybody for the kindness and support they have shown me in this incredible city, you will be always in my heart."

However, Leicester confirmed to Jack Austin of The Independent that the winger's page had been hacked by people with "too much time on their hands."

The club added they are working with Facebook to have the post taken down.

Football writers Greg Johnson and Kevin Palmer were among those to express their doubts about the announcement prior to Leicester's confirmation:

After a slightly lacklustre campaign last season, Mahrez is getting back to his best for the Foxes this year, although he had to deny going AWOL in February when he missed training after failing to secure a move to Manchester City in the winter transfer window.

The Algeria international salvaged a point for Leicester in their 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on Saturday courtesy of a free-kick in added time, taking him into double figures for the third season in a row at the King Power Stadium, per Squawka Football:

He has also served up 10 assists, further showing his value to the team in the final third.

His excellent form this season should ensure there are plenty of suitors interested in acquiring his services this summer, though as City found in January, anyone hoping to snap him up will need to be prepared to spend big to get him.