The wife of Seán Cox has thanked the public for their support throughout the year, saying the injured Liverpool fan has made "encouraging and proud steps" in rehabilitation hospital.

The Irishman, from Dunboyne in Co Meath, was seriously injured in an attack near Anfield stadium before Liverpool FC's Champions League semi-final against AS Roma in April.

He has now spent several months at the National Rehabilitation Hospital, Dun Laoghaire.

In a statement released today, Seán's wife Martina said she wants to extend "a huge expression of gratitude" for all the support her family has received since April.

She said they spent a lot of time over Christmas with Seán at the rehabilitation hospital.

She explained: "He no longer has a feeding tube so is starting to eat and drink again with the help of the wonderful nursing staff. Seán has some more words and is trying very hard to sing along to familiar songs; these are encouraging and proud steps for us all.

"Our family used the time with Seán over Christmas to try and relay to him the public goodwill and support there has been for him over the eight months since his attack. 

"We have shown him social media posts, press clippings and videos from fundraising events across Ireland, England and further afield, the GoFundMe page and the SupportSean.com website, letters and signed jerseys all in aid of Sean and his recovery."

She pointed out that this time last year they were an ordinary family looking forward to the New Year, and 'never dreamt' of where they would be 12 months later.

Martina adds: "While it has been an exceptionally difficult time, what has helped me and the kids get through it has been the overwhelming goodwill of Seán’s family, friends, supporters and the general public. 

"The Support Seán campaign has witnessed huge generosity and has raised €1.1 million to date. People whom we have never met have been there for us in so many, many ways, alongside our family, friends and local community. While we have a battle ahead again in 2019, our burden is lightened by this love and support for Seán."

She thanked the people of Dunboyne, Dublin, Ireland, Liverpool and elsewhere for their support, and said a special thanks to a child who sent €5 of their pocket money in an envelope to the Cox home.