London--Former Tottenham Hotspur and England striker Jimmy Greaves has suffered a severe stroke and is in intensive care in hospital, his family said on Monday.
A prolific goalscorer throughout his career, Greaves scored 44 goals in just 57 appearances for England -- the fourth-highest total of all time.
A family statement said the 75-year-old Greaves had fallen ill on Sunday and was taken to hospital.
"His wife Irene and four children have asked for privacy during what is a worrying time for the family," added the statement.
"Jimmy had a minor stroke in 2012, but appeared to have made a full recovery.
"He was due to be inducted into the Tottenham Hotspur Hall of Fame on 13 May at a sell-out ceremony at White Hart Lane."
Meanwhile Spurs said on their Twitter site: "Everyone at the club wishes Jimmy Greaves a speedy recovery after he suffered a stroke yesterday (Sunday).
"Our thoughts are with Jimmy and his family at this difficult time."
Despite being the outstanding England striker of his era, Greaves missed out on the 1966 World Cup final win over the then West Germany after suffering a shin injury against France in the group stages.
Greaves' former team-mate Geoff Hurst, who replaced him in that side and went on to score a famous hat-trick in England's 4-2 final win at Wembley, added his best wishes, tweeting: "Thinking of my friend and one of our greats this morning, @jimmy_greaves. Wishing him all the best and hoping for a speedy recovery."
AFP
