George Michael is spending his birthday with friends and family.

The 'Faith' hitmaker - who turns 52 today (25.06.15) - has thanked fans for sending him birthday wishes in his first tweets since allegedly checking himself into rehab.

He wrote: ''To my lovelies and fans around the world, thank you for all the birthday wishes, I am truly overwhelmed.

''I am looking forward to spending it with friends and family, thanks again, love The Singing Greek! (sic)''

Meanwhile, George's friends reportedly told him he need to ''seek help or die'' before he attended the Kusnacht Practice in Zollikon, near Zurich

His pal Jake Panayiotou said at the time: ''He's not well. I can't say any more but we're just wishing for him to get better.''

Whilst another friend, who didn't want to be named, added: ''Everyone has been very worried about George. The advice has been very clear, 'You need to seek help or die'.''

However, a representative for George has denied he had entered rehab.

They said: ''Contrary to some reports George has not just entered rehab but is spending time in Europe.

''He is well and enjoying an extended break, as the recent photographs in a national newspaper clearly illustrate.''