England icon Greaves suffers severe stroke
One of English football’s greatest players, Jimmy Greaves, was in intensive care last night after suffering a severe stroke.
A statement from Greaves’ family said the 75-year-old, who had a minor stroke in 2012, had been taken ill on Sunday. “His wife, Irene, and four children have asked for privacy duringwhat is a worrying time,” it added.
Greaves’ skill as a striker was legendary, as he scored 44 goals in 57 England games and a club record 266 goals forTottenham Hotspur. He was due to be inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame a week tomorrow in a sell-out ceremony at White Hart Lane.
Greaves is fourth on the list of England goalscorers, behind Sir Bobby Charlton, Gary Lineker and Wayne Rooney. He was part of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning squad but suffered an injury in the third game of the finals and was replaced by Geoff Hurst.
The affection and respect which those in the game have for Greaves was reflected in yesterday’s get-well messages. His former television partner in Saint and Greavsie, Ian St John, said he was “devastated” by the news, while Hurst tweeted: “Thinking of my friend and one of our greats this morning, @jimmy-greaves. Wishing him all the best and hoping for a speedy recovery.”
Former Tottenham player and manager Ossie Ardiles said: “Wishing JimmyGreaves a speedy recovery. Great player and a better person.”
Other messages included: “Get well soon @jimmygreaves !!” – former England and Manchester City forward Francis Lee.
“Choked to read that Jimmy Greaves has had a severe stroke. One of my absolute heroes. Thoughts are with him and his family. Get well, Jimmy” – Gary Lineker.
“Thinking about the greatest British goal scorer ever, suffering following major stroke @ j i mmy- greaves”– former QPR and England striker Rodney Marsh.
“Hope Jimmy Greaves is recovering well in hospital after suffering a severe stroke.. Had the pleasure of working with him lately. Great guy” – former Wales striker John Hartson.
“Love and best wishes to Jimmy Greaves and family. Get well soon legend!” – former Liverpool striker and current radio pundit Stan Collymore.
“Jimmy Greaves in hospital after a serious stroke. Get well soon Jimmy”– former Tottenham chairman Lord Sugar.