Sir Alex Ferguson's family have issued a statement thanking those who sent messages of support to the former Manchester United manager after he was hospitalised due to a brain haemorrhage.

The Scot's son Darren said that his family are "overwhelmed" by the tributes from the football community and beyond.

"On behalf of myself and my family, I would like to thank the huge number of people who have been kind enough to send messages of support during a difficult time," The Mirror quotes him as saying.

"It has been overwhelming to read how many people care and that they are thinking of my dad and willing his recovery.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the staff at Macclesfield Hospital and at the Salford Royal who have been truly magnificent. We continue to request privacy during this vital period of recovery."

Ferguson underwent emergency surgery when he was hospitalised, and the latest update on his condition confirmed that he is recovering well and no longer in intensive care.