Legendary former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has undergone emergency surgery for a subarachnoid brain haemorrhage after being rushed to hospital amid fears for his health.

The 76-year-old suffered a fall at his Cheshire home as a result, and was quickly taken via an ambulance to Macclesfield district hospital.

“The procedure has gone very well but he needs a period of intensive care to optimise his recovery,” a statement said. “His family request privacy in this matter.”

Ferguson, who took over in 1986, retired as United manager in May 2013 after winning 38 trophies during 26 years at the helm.

The Scot was at Old Trafford last Sunday where he presented outgoing Arsenal boss and former long-time rival Arsene Wenger with a commemorative trophy.

Sir Alex Ferguson

The most successful manager in the history of the British game, Ferguson’s trophy haul at Old Trafford includes 13 Premier League titles, two Champions league crowns, five FA Cups and four League Cups.

He was knighted in 1999, the year United achieved a treble by winning those three trophies in one season.

Under his guidance United also won ten FA Charity/Community Shield titles, the UEFA Super Cup, Inter-Continental Cup, Cup Winners Cup and FIFA World Club Cup.