Cohen: Football Failed Greaves  (Sky Sports)

One of England's World Cup heroes from 1966 has criticised those at the top end of the English game for failing to help Jimmy Greaves who urgently requires money to pay for much-needed hospital treatment.

The 75-year-old former Chelsea, Tottenham and West Ham striker suffered a stroke earlier this year and needs regular physiotherapy to treat his condition.

A public appeal via the internet was set up soon after Greaves left hospital in June and finally, this weekend, the £30,000 target has been reached with the money expected to cover the cost of 500 hours of treatment.

However George Cohen, one of England's full-backs when they won the World Cup at Wembley 49 years ago, has blasted those in football for not providing the money immediately.

Speaking to the Sunday People before the £30k target was reached, Cohen - also 75 - said: "It really is sheer madness that this money hasn't already been raised for Jimmy by people within the game.

"For one of the greatest players I've ever met to be left in this situation is very sad.

"Jimmy gave a lot to the game and he deserves to be helped now.

"In football terms, £30,000 is not a great deal of money. You'd have thought it could be raised easily.

"It's an average wage for most footballers in the Premier League now - some of these guys are getting more than £100,000 a week.

"Someone in football could easily give Jimmy the full £30,000 in one go. I'd do it immediately if I had the money."

Tottenham, one of his former clubs, have paid for part of Greaves' treatment, and the Football Association has also made a contribution, understood to be a four-figure sum.

An internet campaign set up by the former footballer's agent, Terry Baker, has also seen members of the public contribute donations.

Cohen made more than 450 appearances for his only club Fulham before retiring in 1969, and also played 37 times for England.

Greaves, meanwhile, collected major honours with Tottenham while playing 57 times for England and was a member of their 1966 squad - even though he did not play in the final against Germany.