Bordeaux's Alberto Ellis has “awakened” from his coma and “appears to be gradually recovering” from a serious head injury, the striker's family said.
They remained “vigilant” and added that “the next few days will be critical.”
Honduran international Ellis, 28, collided head-on with Guingamp defender Donatiane Gomis just 40 seconds into the French Ligue 2 match on Saturday.
Bordeaux made the announcement on Sunday. Ellis underwent surgery after the incident.
In a statement released by Bordeaux on Wednesday, Ellis' family said: “We are pleased to share with everyone the first encouraging signs that Albert is awake and appears to be gradually recovering.”
“However, we will continue to monitor his condition as the next few days will be critical.
“We would like to thank everyone for your support, words of encouragement, and prayers, and we would especially like to thank our medical team for their care.
“Albers is a fighter. We will update you on his status as soon as possible.”
Ellis played in 64 games for Honduras, scoring 13 goals. He spent three years with Major League Soccer club Houston Dynamo before moving to Europe and joining Boavista.
He spent one season in Portugal, initially signing for Bordeaux on loan, and has scored 15 goals in 60 appearances since joining in 2021. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Brest.
