Ex-England star Luther Blissett, 66, rushed to hospital after 'collapsing at charity event'

Ex-England striker Luther Blissett had to be rushed to hospital after collapsing at a charity event.

The 66-year-old Watford legend was taken ill at a community event at the Grove Hotel on Saturday and has reportedly suffered a bleed to the brain. He was rushed to Watford General Hospital before being transferred to a specialist hospital in London, where he will have to remain for a number of days while further tests are conducted.

"Watford FC is aware of reports that the club’s all-time record appearance-maker and goalscorer Luther Blissett OBE DL is currently receiving medical treatment in hospital," the club said in a statement.

"Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury said: 'Luther and all of his loved ones know they have our full support. We will do all we can to help.' The Hornets wish to confirm at this stage, however, that the club has had no direct confirmation of his circumstances from Luther or his family.

"Everyone connected with Watford FC would like to wish Luther the fullest possible recovery. 'Watford’s Favourite Son’ was helping raise money at a community event last weekend when he was taken ill."

Blissett's partner Lauren Fox told the Watford Observer: "The care Luther received at Watford Hospital was excellent and we'd like to thank them for looking after him so well.

"We also must thank Daniel Ginder and Norman McGuigan, fellow guests at the event, who assisted us in getting Luther to hospital."

She added: "He has been greatly cheered up by receiving messages from teammates in the Former Players Association and all around the world, as well as from fans of Watford and football in general. We're really touched by the concern so many people have shown."

Blissett played for Watford in three different spells in a hugely successful playing career, which saw him score three goals in 14 caps for England. He has been involved in lots of charity work linked to his former club in recent years.

Blissett's former Watford team-mate Nigel Gibbs said: “Luther is a legend in every sense and is someone that is loved and respected by all those that played with him or that he coached.

“I send my thoughts and prayers to Luther and his loved ones, and I am sure that I would be speaking on behalf of all teammates and fans when I say I hope he makes a speedy recovery and is back to full fitness very soon.”