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Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has been rushed to hospital after suffering a brain haemorrhage.
An ambulance was called to the 76-year-old Scotsman’s Cheshire home at 9am local time (noon UAE) on Saturday.
A statement from Manchester United read "Sir Alex Ferguson has undergone emergency surgery today for a brain haemorrhage.
"The procedure has gone very well but he needs a period of intensive care to optimise his recovery."
He was subsequently transferred to Salford Royal Hospital under police escort.
Very sorry to hear the news that Sir Alex Ferguson is seriously ill in hospital. Wish him all the very best.
— Gary Lineker 💙 (@GaryLineker) May 5, 2018
His son, Darren, current manager of League One side Doncaster Rovers, was absent from the club’s final game of the season against Wigan as the news broke.
A statement from Doncaster Rovers said "Rovers manager Darren Ferguson will not be at Saturday's game due to family reasons. Gavin Strachan will oversee the final game of the Sky Bet League One season in the manager's absence.
"Darren asks for privacy, and will provide an update through the club during the week."
The Scot spent 26 years as Manchester United manager, before retiring in 2013. During that time, he guided the club to 13 Premier League titles, two Champions League titles and five FA Cups.
As news of his condition spread, tributes began to pour in from legends of the game.
Manchester United player Michael Carrick tweeted "Absolutely devastated to hear about Sir Alex being unwell in hospital. All my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family." He added "Be strong Boss".
Whilst former England captain Gary Lineker tweeted "Very sorry to hear the news that Sir Alex Ferguson is seriously ill in hospital. Wish him all the very best."
Former Manchester United Striker Mark Hughes, who now manages Southampton told a post-match news conference "I only just got a little whisper earlier on. I was hoping it wasn't true. I wish him all the best."
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Read more
Alex Ferguson in hospital: Ex-Manchester United manager to remain in intensive care
[ Football unites in wishing Alex Ferguson well following emergency brain surgery ]
Former Man United defender Rio Ferdinand retires, hails ‘genius’ Alex Ferguson
From our archives: Alex Ferguson farewell tour to make final stop at Old Trafford
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Former England manager Sam Allardyce said "It is tragic. I am going to find out how he is as soon as I possibly can. Obviously I knew it was extremely serious when I knew his son Darren didn't attend his own game at Doncaster today.
"I hope he is in good hands and I hope the operation is a major success because as a personal friend... I hope he has a full recovery."