Brazilian football legend Pele in 'special care unit'

Pele two months ago pumps his fist in the air while he poses for photos during the inauguration of a soccer pitch powered by players' footsteps. He is currently being monitored in hospital

Pele being monitored in Sao Paulo hospital where he was undergoing treatment for urinary infection.

Thee-time World Cup winner Pele, who is in a Sao Paulo hospital for treatment for a urinary tract infection, has been moved to a hospital wing where he won't be besieged by as many visitors, his spokesman said on Thursday.

The Albert Einstein Hospital had issued a short statement saying Pele, 74, had been moved to a special care unit after suffering 'clinical instability'. The hospital did not provide details.

Jose Fornos Rodrigues, the former player's personal aide, said Pele was "completely fine" and the move was primarily to protect his privacy.

"He was uncomfortable with so many people coming. It'll be quieter now," Rodrigues said by telephone.

A hospital spokeswoman declined to elaborate on Pele's condition, but said he was not in intensive care.

Pele was discharged from the same hospital on November 13 after undergoing surgery to remove kidney stones.

Pele, often called the greatest player in history, has suffered a long list of health problems in the past decade, including emergency eye surgery for a detached retina and a hip replacement.

The Brazil legend won three World Cups as a player and was named Football Player of the Century by FIFA, Athlete of the Century by the International Olympic Committee, and a "national treasure" by Brazil's government