Jimmy Greaves: Tottenham’s record goalscorer ‘comfortable’ in hospital and awaiting test outcomes

Eighty-year-old won two FA Cups and the European Cup Winners’ Cup at White Hart Lane

Jimmy Greaves joined Tottenham for £99,999 in December 1961 (Getty Images)

Jimmy Greaves spent a comfortable night in hospital on Tuesday and is awaiting the outcome of tests.

Tottenham announced on Tuesday night that their record goalscorer, who turned 80 in February, was receiving treatment in hospital, and the PA news agency understands that Greaves spent a comfortable night in hospital and that a further statement is expected once the outcome of tests is known.

Greaves suffered a severe stroke in May 2015, which left him wheelchair-bound.

A statement on his Facebook page, run by his friend and agent Terry Baker, read: “I did promise a statement mid-morning today when I posted a statement last night.

“All I can say is no news is good news at the moment. Jimmy has spoken to [wife] Irene by phone.

“During the course of the day he will be having tests and when we find out the results I will post them on here. So watch this space and have a good thought for Jimmy as you go about your current daily routine.

“His problem isn’t coronavirus-related and doesn’t seem to be related to his previous illness. Hopefully he won’t be in hospital for too long.

“Thanks for the 1000s of you showing concern. England’s greatest ever goalscorer is still with us and here’s hoping he’s home soon.”

Free-scoring Greaves came through the ranks at Chelsea, netting 132 goals in 169 matches before joining Italian giants AC Milan.

The striker returned to England when joining Spurs for £99,999 in December 1961 and scored a record-breaking 266 goals in 379 competitive appearances for the north London club.

Greaves won two FA Cups and the European Cup Winners’ Cup at White Hart Lane, before joining West Ham, with Martin Peters moving the other way.

Greaves also scored 44 goals in 57 England appearances.

Spurs said in a statement on Tuesday night: “We can confirm that our record goalscorer Jimmy Greaves is currently being treated in hospital.

“We are in touch with his family and will provide further updates in due course.

“Everybody at the club sends their best wishes to Jimmy and his family.”

PA