George Michael's doctors are "optimistic" about his recovery.

The 48-year-old singer has been receiving treatment for pneumonia at the AKH Clinic in Austria and although they have been serious worries about his health, medics have now revealed his condition is improving.

Christoph Zielinski - one of his doctors - told Austrian TV and radio network ORF: "We know he's doing fine and we are generally optimistic."

However, the doctor insisted there are no definite plans yet as to whether the 'Faith' hitmaker will be able to return to the UK for Christmas.

Asked where George will spend the festive season, Zielinski replied: "That's an issue we haven't been able to decide on yet. And it's a decision that needs to be made with the patient."

Last week, the singer's boyfriend Fadi Fawaz claimed the pop superstar would be flying back to England for Christmas.

He said: "Christmas at home. I cannot stop smiling today, the best day ever. He is getting better and better. Nothing to worry about, Happy Days."

The singer's spokesperson added: "He is getting better and better."

George had to cancel all the remaining shows on his 'Symphonica Tour' when he fell ill.

Fadi has kept a bedside vigil and George's 75-year-old father Kyriacos Panayiotou and older sisters Melanie, 49, and Yioda, 53, also flew to Austria to be with him.