Latest: Ex Clarets defender Clarke Carlisle ‘stable’

His wife, Gemma, has taken to social media site Twitter to thank everyone who has sent in messages of support for the Preston-born former Professional Footballers’ Association chairman. She said she has been “overwhelmed” by the goodwill shown.

Carlisle is reported to have undergone surgery at Leeds Royal Infirmary after sustaining injuries in the incident on the A64 near Bishopthorpe at 7-30am on Monday.

Describing the father-of-three as “very poorly” but “alive and stable”, Mrs Carlisle said his recovery would be “the best Christmas present” for the family.

Carlisle, who has penned his own autobiography and been hailed “Britain’s Brainiest Footballer”, is involved in campaigns to combat racism in football and highlight mental health issues in sport.