Messages of support have flooded in for Edwin van der Sar after Ajax issued an update on the legendary goalkeeper.
The 53-year-old was on holiday in Croatia when he suffered a brain haemorrhage and collapsed. He was taken to hospital by helicopter on Friday and is staying in the intensive care unit. Former club Ajax later confirmed that their ex-player and chief executive was suffering from bleeding around his brain but in a stable condition.
The club themselves have also released an update on behalf of the family: "Edwin van der Sar will remain in intensive care for the time being," he said. "His condition is stable but still concerning. Ajax shares this information on behalf of Annemarie van der Sar, Edwin's wife."
Van der Sar has iconic status with both the Dutch club and Manchester United, having won the Champions League with both clubs in a storybook career which also saw him win 130 caps for Holland. And former United teammate Rio Ferdinand has been among those to post public messages of support.
"Ed is a fighter," he tweeted. "Our thoughts are with the Van Der Sar family!" Former England and Arsenal keeper David Seaman wrote: "Wishing the great man Edwin Van Der Sar a full and speedy recovery, stay strong big man!"
Van Der Sar also excelled in a four year stint with Fulham, and his deputy for part of that period, Mark Crossley, also released a statement: "My former team mate Edwin Van Der Sar," he said. "I am praying for you my friend for a speedy recovery, a true gentleman and a great goalkeeper, a pleasure to work alongside."
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The official Manchester United account posted a picture of him with the line "Sending all our love and strength to you, Edwin," while UEFA said: "Following his admission to hospital today, the thoughts and best wishes of UEFA and the entire European football community are with Edwin van der Sar and his family. We’re all with you, Edwin."
Ajax kicked off their pre-season preparations on Saturday with a home game against fellow Dutch team Den Bosch. And prior to kick off, the players wore green warm up t-shirts bearing the number 1 and the name Van der Sar on the front.
Only on Thursday, he had seemingly enjoyed a family night out with his daughter Lynn and friends at the Carpe Diem Bar in Hvar. He also posed for a photo with DJ Tom Chambers at Laganini the previous day, and again appeared in good spirits.
