Leeds United hero Dominic Matteo recovering following operation on brain tumour

Former Leeds United captain Dominic Matteo is being treated in hospital having fallen seriously ill earlier this week.

The 45-year-old underwent an operation on a brain tumour and is now recovering after coming out of intensive care at Leeds General Infirmary.

A statement from Liverpool FC read: "The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Dom, his family and friends and we will be offering our support to them throughout this difficult time.

"We wish Dom a full and speedy recovery and will offer any support we can to his wife and family.

"Dom's family would like to place on record their gratitude to all staff at Leeds General Infirmary and express their thanks for all of the messages of support they have received."

Matteo is famous at Elland Road for his goal against AC Milan in the Champions League group stages at the San Siro in 2000 and made over 150 appearances for the Whites who he went on to skipper.

The former Scotland international came through the Reds academy on Merseyside before his spell at Elland Road which was followed by stints with Blackburn Rovers and Stoke City.

Matteo retired from playing in 2009 to work in the media and is still a regular figure in LS11 on a matchday.