Sir Alex Ferguson undergone emergency surgery on a brain haemorrhage.

Manchester United announced the news in a brief statement on Saturday evening, adding: “The procedure has 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.”

Well wishes immediately began to flood in for the most successful manager in the history of the British game, who had appeared fit and well when he presented his old sparring partner Arsene Wenger with a memento at Old Trafford last Sunday.

Rumours began to circulate about the 76-year-old’s health after Doncaster manager Darren Ferguson, Sir Alex’s son, did not attend his side’s final match of the League One season against Wigan because of what was reported as a “severe family issue”.

The Football Association, Premier League and Premier League clubs all tweeted their best wishes along with a host of current and former United players.

The Scot retired in May 2013 after winning 38 trophies during 26 and a half years as manager.