Massive relief for Best's wife

George Best's wife, Alex, today spoke of her "massive relief " that the football legend had survived the critical hours following a liver transplant.

Her comments came as the consultants involved in the operation at Cromwell Hospital in west London revealed that the transplant came in the nick of time.

Professor Roger Williams, consultant physician in overall charge of the operation, said: "When we saw everything yesterday during the transplant procedure, his liver had reached what we call end stage."

Consultant Nigel Heaton, who led the surgical team, added: "If he had not had the operation I would have expected him to live for three to 12 months at the most."

Mrs Best, 29, said today: "It has been a massive relief that George has successfully come through his operation. I'm sorry, it's been an awful strain, and I'm too tired to say more." Best's agent and friend, Phil Hughes, added: "I've been told by the hospital that George had a comfortable night. Obviously, we are all delighted and hugely relieved that he is on the mend."

The 56-year-old former Manchester United and Northern Ireland footballer is in intensive care. The latest statement from the hospital - where his wife and son, Calum, remained at his bedside for a tense all-night vigil - said: "Mr Best is comfortable and recognising family and staff."

Given that his new liver is said to be " working well" according to Mr Heaton, Best may be well enough to receive visitors from outside his family within four days.

In the next couple of weeks he will also lose the jaundice which gave him a yellow pallor and his skin texture will improve. "He will, however, be reliant on immuno- suppressant drugs for the rest of his life," said Mr Heaton.

The surgeon added: "The short term looks fine but I have learned to always be circumspect at this stage and to take each day at a time."

Yesterday's operation follows Best's return from a holiday in Malta on Thursday. He had been told he must give up drinking or die after collapsing two years ago.

He and his wife had stayed within an hour of the airport to ensure they could be back in Britain within six hours if necessary.