Former England, Chelsea Captain Ray Wilkins Critically Ill After Heart Attack

Former England, Chelsea and Manchester United footballer Ray Wilkins is critically ill in hospital after suffering a heart attack.

The former England international is being treated at St George's Hospital, which told BBC Sport "his family have asked for privacy."

As reported by Sky Sports, the 61-year-old collapsed at his home on Wednesday and was taken to intensive care.

Wilkins' wife, Jackie, told Ben Rossington of the Daily Mirror that Wilkins suffered a cardiac arrest.

"He is not in a good state at all, I'm afraid," she said. "He's critically ill. The cardiac arrest led to a fall which has meant he's had to be put in an induced coma. It's very, very bad."

The news has prompted a huge reaction, with Chelsea icon Frank Lampard, who worked under Wilkins during his time as a coach with the Blues, wishing him well.

"All thoughts and strength with this man and his family tonight," Lampard posted on Instagram. "An absolute gentleman."

The Premier League champions offered their "love and support" on Twitter:

Meanwhile, Chelsea legend Didier Drogba posted the following message:

Wilkins has been seen and heard in punditry roles with Sky Sports and TalkSport as of late. The former's Alex Hammond praised the character of Wilkins:

The ex-midfielder enjoyed a storied playing career, including an FA Cup win with Manchester United in 1983 and a Scottish Premier League title triumph with Rangers in 1989. Prior to both, he played for the Blues between 1973 and 1979.

Wilkins enjoyed a prosperous international career, representing England 83 times and captaining the Three Lions on 10 occasions.

SIMON DAWSON/Associated Press

Away from English football, he also made an impact on the continent in spells with AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain.

As a coach, he was part of the staffs behind illustrious managers Carlo Ancelotti and Guus Hiddink at Chelsea between 2008 and 2010.