An Aberdeen football coach who was critically injured in the Żurrieq double-decker bus crash has spoken his first words since the April 9 accident.

Simon Morrison was in an induced coma after suffering horrific head injuries when the bus crashed into a tree. Two tourists died in the tragedy.

Morrison, who coaches Middlefield Wasps under-19s, was flown to Aberdeen last Saturday.

He is now also breathing unaided for the first time, British media reported.

Mark McCready, of Middlefield Wasps, told STV News: "We can't thank everyone enough for their messages for Simon.

"He was flown back to Aberdeen on Saturday from Malta so at least his family are by his side now.

"I went up to the hospital to see him. He was sticking his tongue out at me and winking.

"He still had tubes to assist his breathing. He was also kicking his legs about."

Mr McCready added: "He has now had his tubes removed and is breathing on his own which is amazing news.

"He talked as well. It's still a long recovery period for him and family.

"I will be going up next week to see him again and to show him all the kind messages to give him a boost.

"He is a fighter."

A 37-year-old woman from Spain and a man, 62, from Belgium died in the crash.