Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has backed former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson to recover from the emergency brain surgery he was forced to undergo on Saturday.

Ferguson suffered a brain haemorrhage yesterday that saw him rushed to hospital before undergoing a successful operation, but he remains in intensive care.

Klopp admitted that he was shocked by the news - which he heard while travelling down to London for this afternoon's Premier League clash with Chelsea - but is "100% sure" that Ferguson will successfully fight the illness.

"I met Sir Alex after the first leg against Roma. I had a few words with him, and when I heard the news yesterday on the way to London I really couldn't believe that something like this can happen," Klopp told reporters at his post-match press conference.

"He is, was and will be in my prayers 100% and I wish him and his family all the best. He will be in a good shape again, I'm 100% sure, and I am looking forward to seeing him again."

Ferguson led United to 38 major trophies during his illustrious 26-year reign at Old Trafford.