The Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield confirmed Alexander is recovering from the complex operation to repair a ruptured cerebral aneurysm.

"Following surgery, Keith remains poorly and under close observation," a statement from the hospital said.

Assistant manager Gary Simpson has taken over team affairs since Alexander collapsed last Tuesday.

The hospital statement continued: "Keith's family do not wish to disclose any further details at present but would like to thank the hundreds of well-wishers from across the country for the messages of support and goodwill they have received.

We are just keeping our fingers crossed and praying that he will be okay Assistant boss Gary Simpson

"They also thank people for respecting their privacy at this difficult time."

Simpson acknowledged Alexander is still in a bad away and believes the next few days will be crucial to his rehabilitation.

"Everyone at the club is just hoping that he continues to improve with time," he said.

"He's receiving the best possible care from the best surgeons in the world who performed the operation.

"We should know more by the end of the week when things will hopefully become clearer.

"In the meantime, we are just keeping our fingers crossed and praying that he will be okay."

Lincoln are going to raise money for Neurocare, the charity which raises funds for head injury patients at the Royal Hallamshire.

As part of that there will be a collection at Saturday's game against Bristol Rovers.

The players have also decided to wear shirts displaying a picture of Alexander during the warm up which will later be signed and auctioned off.