SIR Alex Ferguson is sitting up and talking to family members after waking up in hospital following brain haemorrhage surgery over the weekend.
The former Manchester United manager remains in intensive care but according to hospital staff, is responding well to treatment and showing positive signs of recovery.
The 76-year-old was admitted to Salford Royal Hospital on Saturday, much to the shock of the football world.
Words of support poured in from the legions of fans and former players.
Ryan Giggs spoke of his shock at receiving the news, but said that his former boss is ‘a fighter’.
He said: “It was a huge shock as the news filtered in. But I gather that the operation has been a success. I think the next couple of days are crucial.
“I’m hoping he pulls through for a full recovery and my best wishes go out to all his family.
“Now is the time to pray and hope he can make a full recovery. He has been the biggest influence in my career, both on and off the pitch.
“I know the operation has been a success – but he is a fighter and that is what makes me think that he will be able to make a recovery.”
Current United captain Michael Carrick sees the outpour of messages of goodwill shows how much love and respect people have for the Scotsman.
“It just shows you the mark of the man and the respect he had”, he said.
“The whole football world is incredible but outside of that as well, from all corners of the globe and different walks of life, people have shown their support.
“That’s the effect he had on people. It was the effect he had on everyone. He means a lot to me, as he does to this club.
“We were all praying for him and thinking of him, Cathy and the family. It’s a tough time for everyone but I’m thinking positive and hoping he will pull through.”
Ferguson’s wife Cathy, and children including son Darren, who is the manager of Doncaster Rovers, were reportedly at his bedside when he awoke from the coma.
Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham and many more posted messages of goodwill on social media after hearing the news.
