Fabrice Muamba rehearsing for 'Strictly Come Dancing' Christmas special

Fabrice Muamba has confirmed that he will be competing in this year's Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special.

The 24-year-old will take to the dancefloor just eight months after suffering a cardiac arrest during an FA Cup match.

The former Bolton Wanderers player told the Daily Mail: "This is definitely the hardest thing I have done since my recovery.

"I'm feeling good now. I've already been training with Aliona (Vilana, his professional dance partner) for a week and there are no complaints.

"But I have a new respect for dancers. I have always been a massive fan of Strictly so it is a pleasure to take part."

Muamba's heart problems forced him to retire from football during the summer.