The former Spurs and England footballer Glenn Hoddle was recovering from a heart attack last night after collapsing in a London TV studio on his 61st birthday. A source close to the family told a former teammate that Hoddle had been “close to death” and was saved by the quick action of an employee at BT Sport who knew how to use a defibrillator.

A spokesman for Hoddle said: “The condition is serious but Glenn is receiving specialist treatment and responding well. Glenn’s family are with him and would like to thank everyone that has sent their support. They have also asked for their privacy to be respected.”

Hoddle, a regular pundit who was in the London studios to preview the match between Brighton and Wolves on Robbie Savage’s show, collapsed after the show and was taken to hospital after receiving attention from colleagues.

Savage tweeted: “Worst experience of my life today, thoughts and prayers with Glenn and his family, so proud of our BT Sport team today, all heroes.” Savage also praised the actions of Simon Daniels, a member of the production crew who provided first aid to Hoddle at the scene.

“So pleased that Glenn is now getting the best care possible in hospital,” Daniels tweeted in response. “Just did what was necessary to give him a fighting chance. Thoughts are with his family.”

Simon Daniels (@SD_Audio) @PaulInce @markpougatch @julesbreach so pleased that Glenn is now getting the best care possible in hospital. Just did what was necessary to give him a fighting chance. Thoughts are with his family. It was my training as a Special Constable that paid off @SSGT9201

The presenter Mark Pougatch said: “You will understand why there’s no BT Sport Score this afternoon. All our thoughts are with Glenn Hoddle and his family.” His co-presenter, Jake Humphrey, tweeted: “Every one of us is right with you Glenn, sending love and strength.”

Hoddle’s former teammate, requesting anonymity, told the Observer: “He was very close to death but, thanks to BT staff, he is still here.”

His former England teammate Gary Lineker tweeted: “Thoughts are with him and his family. Come on Glenn.” Tottenham tweeted: “Everybody at the Club sends their best wishes to @GlennHoddle for a full and speedy recovery.” Chelsea, for whom Hoddle made 39 appearances as a player and whom he led to the 1994 FA Cup final, added: “We’re right with you, Glenn.”

Play Video 1:24 Hughton and Hughes lead well-wishes for Glenn Hoddle – video

Hoddle played for Tottenham, Monaco, Swindon and Chelsea over two decades. One of England’s most graceful and skilful footballers, he played in the Spurs teams who won the 1981 and 1982 FA Cups, and scored eight goals in 53 games for England.

After becoming player-manager of Swindon and inspiring them to promotion to the Premier League in 1993, he took the same role at Chelsea. He led England to the 1998 World Cup, later taking charge of Southampton, Spurs and Wolves until 2006, when he turned to TV punditry.