Well wishes from across the worlds of sport, politics and television have flooded in for Alex Ferguson after news the former Manchester United manager had surgery for a brain haemorrhage.
The 76-year-old, hailed as one of the most successful football managers ever, will now require a period of "intensive care" to help his recovery, his former club said, adding that the surgery had gone "very well".
Football fans have set allegiances aside to unite in sending their best wishes to Ferguson and his family.
Arch United rivals Manchester City joined other clubs, some using the hashtag football family, to wish Ferguson well.
Manchester City tweeted: "Everyone at Manchester City wishes Sir Alex Ferguson a full and speedy recovery after his surgery."
Anfield HQ tweeted: "A great rival but also a great friend who supported this club during its most difficult time, it is hoped that Sir Alex will make a full recovery."
Aberdeen Football club, which Ferguson helped to break the Celtic and Rangers dominance of Scottish football before he went on to manage Manchester United, also wished him well.
The club tweeted: "The thoughts and prayers of everyone connected with Aberdeen Football Club are with our former manager, Sir Alex Ferguson and his family following tonight's news."
Former United player David Beckham posted a picture on Instagram of himself as a fresh-faced schoolboy with Ferguson, writing: "Keep fighting Boss.. Sending prayers and love to Cathy and the whole family."
United midfielder Michael Carrick said he was "absolutely devastated" to hear Ferguson was ill.
He added: "All my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. Be strong Boss."
Former United striker Mark Hughes, speaking after his Southampton side's draw with Everton, said: "I wish him all the best."
Former Liverpool great Robbie Fowler tweeted: "Wishing Sir Alex Ferguson a full and speedy recovery following his emergency surgery today."
Scotland's First Minister and SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon joined Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson in tweeting their best wishes for Ferguson.
Television presenter Eamonn Holmes, a longtime friend of the football hero and fervent Manchester United fan, described him as an "amazing man".
He tweeted: "Praying for The Boss that he makes a full recovery from his Brain Haemorrhage. So much part of my life personally and professionally for over 30 years. An amazing man and friend. (hash)MUFC".
Former goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, whose wife Annemarie van Kesteren suffered a brain haemorrhage in 2009 but later recovered, tweeted: "Devasted about the news about Sir Alex and knowing all too well about the situation ourselves. Stay strong and hope together with everyone you recover. Edwin & Annemarie"
Reuters
