David Furnish and Elton John counsel Madonna and Guy Ritchie

Newlyweds Sir Elton John and David Furnish have offered close friends Madonna and Guy Ritchie “marriage counselling”.

Elton and I have spoken to Madonna plenty of times lately. She and Guy are close friends of ours,” David recently told the Mirror.

“They both need to concentrate on their careers if they want their relationship to work. Elton and I completely understand, but if they neglect [their marriage], their relationship will inevitably disintegrate.”

“They will be fine if they don’t neglect what they love to do. If that means they can’t see each other, that’s the way it has to be.”

“We know what it’s like to be under so much pressure.”

“We had our lovely wedding and honeymoon, but I haven’t seen Elton for the past two weeks because I’ve been busy with the Aids charity and my own projects.”

“Couples have to compromise. That’s what Guy and Madonna have to remember and they’ll make it.”