Football icon Paul Gascoigne has contacted loved ones from his hospital bed to confirm he is "fine" following a medical emergency at his Dorset residence on Friday evening.
The 58-year-old former England international was discovered in a semi-conscious state and required urgent hospitalisation.
Medical staff initially placed Gascoigne in intensive care at a Poole hospital, but his condition has since stabilised.
The footballer has now been transferred to an acute medical ward where he continues to recover.
PA | Gascoigne, 58, was said to have been found in his Dorset bedroom by a friend before being admitted to intensive careReports say that Gascoigne has been communicating with friends and family to alleviate concerns about his wellbeing.
The medical emergency unfolded when long-time companion and personal assistant Steve Foster discovered the former midfielder unconscious in his bedroom.
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Foster immediately transported him to hospital where medical staff admitted him to the intensive care unit.
This health crisis represents a significant reversal for Gascoigne, who had maintained sobriety for a full three-month period whilst undertaking various speaking commitments throughout the summer.
Those close to the former Newcastle and Tottenham player noted he had appeared in excellent condition during these recent public appearances.
A source familiar with the situation stated: "He has been doing well recently so this was an unexpected setback."
The collapse marked an unforeseen development for the 57-times capped England international, who had successfully abstained from alcohol during his recent professional commitments.
Throughout the summer months, Gascoigne had been travelling for speaking events where observers remarked on his healthy appearance.
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High Performance | Paul Gascoigne was hospitalised over the weekend after collapsing at home"He had a full three months without alcohol over the summer while he was doing various speaking engagements and looked really well," a source close to the footballer revealed.
Earlier this year, Gascoigne had expressed optimism about his health, telling The Mirror: "I feel better now than I have in years."
He had also indicated his desire for the public to see beyond his well-documented struggles.
Foster, who discovered Gascoigne on Friday evening, released a brief message on the footballer's behalf.
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GETTY | Paul Gascoigne is considered one of the best England players of all time"Gazza would like to thank everyone for the support he's received so far from so many old friends who wish him well and want to see him back to his best," he stated.
Medical professionals had initially anticipated Gascoigne would require hospitalisation for multiple days, but his recovery has progressed more rapidly than expected. He may secure an earlier discharge than originally projected.
The former England star has indicated he intends to share a more comprehensive health update later today, according to reports.