Former England and Hammers striker Jimmy Greaves is in intensive care after suffering a severe stroke.

The 75-year-old, who suffered a minor stroke in 2012, was admitted to hospital on Sunday.

Greaves joined West Ham in March 1970 from. Spurs in a deal worth £220,000 with Martin Peters going the other way in part exchange. He went on to play 40 times in a Hammers shirt in all competitions scoring 13 times. He left in 1971.

Durng his international career he scored 44 goals in 57 appearances and was part of the England squad which won the World Cup on home soil

A statement issued on behalf of his family read: "Football legend Jimmy Greaves suffered a severe stroke on Sunday May 3 and is in intensive care in hospital.

“His wife, Irene, and four children have asked for privacy during what is a worrying time for the family. They will issue a bulletin on his condition when it is appropriate.

“England’s greatest ever goal scorer was 75 on February 20, and has been working regularly on the personal appearances circuit in harness with his friend and agent Terry Baker.

“Jimmy had a minor stroke in 2012, but appeared to have made a full recovery”

Hammer Sir Geoff Hurst, who replaced Greaves during England’s journey towards winning the World Cup in 1966, tweeted: “Thinking of my friend and one of our greats this morning. Wishing him all the best and hoping for a speedy recovery.”