Former
England and Tottenham great Jimmy Greaves is out of intensive care and able
to sit up following a severe stroke.
The 75-year-old, who recovered from a minor stroke in 2012, was admitted to
hospital on Sunday May 3 after being taken ill and was unable to speak,
despite being conscious.
In a welcome boost, Greaves agent Terry Baker confirmed on Thursday: "Jimmy
is out of intensive care and is able to sit up in bed.
"Whilst he is by no means out of the woods, there is room for cautious
optimism.
"We would like to thank all the staff at the hospital who have been
fantastic. We would also give thanks to over 30,000 well-wishers, including
many players and ex-TV colleagues, as well as so many fans that have sent
messages and love to Jim at this most difficult of times.
"The support shown has been amazing and heart-warming. Please continue to
have good thoughts for him for the long road ahead as he fights this
terrible thing that has happened."
In a statement issued earlier this week, his wife said his recovery would be
a lengthy process, stating: "Jimmy is having to do what he is told, and
understands the seriousness of what has happened to him. It is going to be a
long, slow road to recovery and he is in the best possible hands."
Greaves is regarded as one of the greatest English forwards of all time.
He scored 44 goals in 57 games for his country and also netted a club record
266 times in 379 matches for Tottenham. He also scored more league goals
(366) than any other player in Europe's five major championships - England,
Spain, Italy, Germany and France.
After retiring from the game, Greaves co-hosted the popular Saturday
lunchtime football show Saint and Greavsie alongside former Liverpool
forward St John.
Greaves suffered a minor stroke in 2012, but was thought to have made a full
recovery. He had been due to be indicted into the Tottenham Hall of Fame in
a sell-out ceremony at White Hart Lane on Wednesday, 13 May.
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