Muamba 'taking steps to recovery' (From Dudley News)

Muamba 'taking steps to recovery'

2:27pm Tuesday 20th March 2012 in National News © Press Association 2013

Footballer Fabrice Muamba is taking his first steps to recovery after suffering a cardiac arrest at the weekend, his manager has said.

The 23-year-old remains in intensive care at the London Chest Hospital after collapsing during an FA Cup match against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.

Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle said he had spoken directly to the midfielder, whom he described as a "fighter", as he continues to show signs of recovery.

Coyle praised the treatment the former England Under-21 international had received but warned there was still a long way to go.

He said: "I have been in to see him myself, as has his family, and we have had a brief conversation, the contents of which are private.

"It's a great sign. I must stress we are very early in this process and there is still a long way to go but it is really positive."

Coyle's comments come after doctors said Muamba had experienced a "comfortable night" as the star spends his fourth day in intensive care.

A joint statement by Barts and the London NHS Trust and the club said: "Fabrice Muamba has had a comfortable night in the intensive care unit at the London Chest Hospital where the medical team is continuing to monitor his progress.

"Fabrice's family has asked us to thank everyone again for their thoughts and prayers and for the continued messages of support from which they draw great strength.

"To ensure the smooth running of the hospital for all patients, as well as Fabrice's need to concentrate on his recovery, they would request that he receives no more visitors for the moment, outside of immediate family and members of Bolton Wanderers Football Club."