Sir Alex Ferguson was battling for his life after suffering a brain haemorrhage yesterday. The former Manchester United manager underwent surgery after being admitted to hospital yesterday morning. An ambulance went to his house around 9am and he was taken to Macclesfield district hospital. He was subsequently transferred, with a police escort, to the Salford Royal where the surgery took place.

An official United statement said that the procedure had “gone very well but he needs a period of intensive care to aid his recovery. His family request privacy in this matter. Everyone at Manchester United sends our very best wishes.”

His son, Darren, was not present yesterday to see his Doncaster side play Wigan in their League One game. A Doncaster club statement said