Former Tottenham Hotspur and England striker Jimmy Greaves is in intensive care after suffering a severe stroke, his family has confirmed.

The 75-year-old was admitted to hospital after being taken ill on Sunday morning.

Greaves, who scored 44 goals in 57 England appearances, suffered a minor stroke in 2012 but made a full recovery.

"Football legend Jimmy Greaves suffered a severe stroke on Sunday May 3, and is in intensive care in hospital," a statement from his family read. "His wife, Irene, and four children have asked for privacy during what is a worrying time for the family. They will issue a bulletin on his condition when it is appropriate.

"England's greatest ever goal scorer was 75 on February 20, and has been working regularly on the personal appearances circuit in harness with his friend and agent Terry Baker.

"Jimmy had a minor stroke in 2012, but appeared to have made a full recovery. He was due to be inducted into the Tottenham Hotspur Hall of Fame on May 13 at a sell-out ceremony at White Hart Lane. This is all we wish to say at the present time."

Greaves also played for Chelsea, AC Milan and West Ham United during his career.