Raul Jimenez making 'excellent progress' and due to leave hospital early next week

Dr Matt Perry said the striker, who underwent an operation after a sickening clash of heads with Arsenal defender David Luiz on Sunday, will require ‘space, rest and peace’ as he continues his recovery.

Dr Perry said the club had been ‘delighted’ by reports of Jimenez’s recovery from hospital specialists and the forward was now set to return home to his partner and baby daughter soon.

The 29-year-old was stretchered off at The Emirates after being given oxygen on the pitch following the collision early on in Wolves’ win against the Gunners.

However, his progress has been good and it is now hoped he will be able to leave hospital in the coming days.

Dr Perry said timescales of the Mexico forward’s recovery remain ‘uncertain’ but added the forward has made ‘excellent progress’ from his operation.

The doctor added: “Following Raul’s injury on Sunday, and the subsequent surgery, he has been recovering well in hospital.

“We are delighted with the reports from his specialist; he has made excellent progress. He should be ready to leave hospital by early next week.

“Once home, he will be reunited with his partner and young daughter who, because of Covid restrictions, he hasn’t seen since Sunday night.”

He added: “As his doctor I am not going to disclose any more details of his injury, his surgery or provide daily accounts of his recovery.

“Any injury of this nature is complex and timescales are uncertain but it’s safe to say that Raul’s most immediate needs are simple: space, rest and peace.

“Raul and his family are very thankful for the privacy they have been given, and for the overwhelming support they have felt from the football family and beyond.

“Raul is extremely grateful for all the messages of goodwill he continues to receive, which will certainly help him during his recovery.”

The striker thrilled fans earlier this week when he posted a message on social media thanking them for their support and expressing his hope to return to the pitch soon.

His partner Daniela Basso tweeted her thanks for the good wishes sent by Wolves fans – as well as those of other clubs.

“I would love to be able to thank each of you for so much love and support, we are very excited with so many messages and nice wishes,” she said.

The positive news was echoed by Mexico head coach Gerardo Martino, who revealed he had spoken to Jimenez via a video call to the striker in hospital.

“I had contact through a video call and it was normal without any type of problems,” Martino told Mexican TV.

“I understand the club not wanting to give out information that isn’t correct, but we have been in contact with them permanently and we are checking on the evolution and we are very positive about the future.”

Martino added: “I don’t think it will [harm his career].

“Firstly, Raul is a very strong person and football player, with a very positive mentality.

“He is very intelligent, I don’t think it will [have long-term implications], at least for us from being in contact permanently with the club doctors, Raul and his partner.”