Jimmy Greaves is aware of the seriousness of the stroke he suffered, the former England striker's wife Irene has revealed.
The 75-year-old former Tottenham, Chelsea and West Ham star was admitted to hospital on Sunday following a severe stroke which has left him in intensive care.
His wife, Irene, issued a statement on Tuesday saying his recovery would be a long and slow process.
She said: "Jimmy is having to do what he is told, and understands the seriousness of what has happened to him. It is going to be a long, slow road to recovery and he is in the best possible hands.
"On behalf of Jimmy and our family, We would like to thank the many thousands of you who have voiced your support and concern. We would greatly appreciate it if the media would allow us privacy for what is going to be a long period of rehabilitation."
The world of football rallied around Greaves after it emerged he had been admitted to hospital on Sunday.