Eusebio feeling well after leaving hospital

AFP - 26 April 2007 14:22

Former Portugal star Eusebio is seen here in 2005. Eusebio has said he was feeling well after leaving hospital, where he had been held since 21 April.

LISBON (AFP) - Former Portugal star Eusebio said he was feeling well Thursday after leaving hospital, where he had been held since Saturday.

The 'Black Panther' as he was known in his playing days, underwent surgery on his carotid arteries on Monday after suffering from a blockage of the arteries that carry blood to the brain.

But upon leaving Lisbon's Hospital of Light he told reporters: "I feel fine. I hope to be fully recovered in a week."

Eusebio hails originally from former Portuguese colony Mozambique and lit up the 1966 World Cup, scoring nine goals as Portugal reached the semi-finals.

He was a major star for Benfica during the 1960s and 1970s, winning 10 titles, five cups and one European Cup, whilst also playing in three other finals of Europe's top competition.