West Ham's Calum Davenport believes blood transfusions probably saved his life.
Davenport suffered heavy bleeding after he was allegedly attacked and stabbed in both legs by his sister's boyfriend with a kitchen knife in Bedford last month.
Writing on his Barclays Premier League club's website, Davenport reports he is "feeling positive" - although he remains in hospital nearly a month on and he said: "I would like to thank anyone who has ever donated blood, because you probably saved my life. I would like to encourage everyone to give blood."
He added: "At the moment I am still in hospital and have quite a long way to go on the road to recovery, but I am feeling positive.
"Thanks to the club, my team-mates and fans, to the club doctors and the amazing staff at Bedford Hospital who have looked after me so well."
The 26-year-old defender wants to say a "heartfelt thank-you" to everyone who has sent messages of support to him and his family.
"I has been a tough time, and the support has been very much appreciated," he added.
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