Elton John set to make 'important' announcement about 'where the future lies' in his career

Sir Elton John is reportedly set announce that he will quit touring after nearly 50 years on stage.

The legendary singer told fans that he would be making an announcement about “where the future lies” in a press conference on Wednesday.

Some worried fans are already speculating that the 70-year-old will be calling time on his career on the road, but will be kept waiting until 17.30 GMT for any official word.

John is expected to do one last tour following the end of his Las Vegas residency in March.

According to the Daily Mirror, the singer's recent ill health as a contributing factor to his decision.

Last year, John was hospitalised after contracting a “harmful and unusual bacterial infection” on a flight home from Chile.

He spent two nights in intensive care and 12 days in hospital, before resting at home after the “rare and potentially deadly” illness.

In a statement at the time, his agent said: “Thankfully, Elton's medical team identified this quickly and treated it successfully. He is expected to make a full and complete recovery.”

His most recent album release came at the end of last year, with double-CD Diamonds featuring his greatest hits.