SIR Alex Ferguson has sent a message of thanks to medical staff and well-wishers as he recovers from surgery on a brain haemorrhage. 

In his first public appearance since the operation in May, the 76-year-old told the Macclesfield, Salford Royal and Alexandra hospitals 'without you I would not be sitting here today.'

Ferguson went on to say he felt humbled by the messages he has received from supporters all over the world, before pledging to return to Old Trafford later this season to watch Manchester United in action. 

The former St Mirren and Aberdeen manager has spent the last two months recovering at home.