Scotland and Liverpool legend, Sir Kenny Dalglish, has disclosed that he is currently receiving treatment for cancer.
The 75-year-old football icon revealed the diagnosis after unintentionally making it public through a social media post, explaining that he had originally hoped to keep the matter private.
“I am currently undergoing treatment for cancer,” Dalglish wrote on social media. “Unlike my mobile phone use, the treatment is going well.
“Ideally, this would have remained private because that’s the way it should be, but my useless technology skills have forced my hand.
“Obviously I did not mean to make this matter public so I would appreciate it if the privacy of my family and myself are respected.
“As ever, thank you to the wonderful medical staff who have shown incredible care and discretion, not just for me but for many, many others. They are a credit to themselves.”
Widely regarded as one of Scotland’s greatest-ever players, Dalglish earned 102 caps for his country and scored 30 goals, a tally that remains a joint national record alongside Denis Law. He is also Scotland’s most-capped player.
Dalglish first rose to prominence at Celtic, where he netted 167 goals in 320 appearances between 1969 and 1977, helping the club win four league titles and four Scottish Cups.
His move to Liverpool in 1977 for a British record fee of £440,000 marked the beginning of a glittering spell at Anfield. Across 515 appearances, he won three European Cups and eight First Division titles, becoming one of the club’s most celebrated figures.
In 1985, Dalglish was appointed player-manager of Liverpool, guiding the Reds to additional success, including two FA Cup triumphs.
He also played a key leadership role in helping the club and its supporters through the aftermath of the Hillsborough disaster in 1989.
Following his first spell at Liverpool, Dalglish managed Blackburn Rovers, leading them to the Premier League title in 1995, before later taking charge of Newcastle United, Celtic and Liverpool once again between 2011 and 2012.
Liverpool paid tribute to their former player and manager in a statement, saying, “The support, best wishes and love of everyone at Liverpool FC are, and will be, with Sir Kenny and his family.
“The club would also like to underscore his request for privacy moving forward.”
Former Liverpool striker Ian Rush also sent his support, writing, “The King is one of the strongest and most positive people I’ve ever known. If anyone can face this battle with courage and determination, it’s King Kenny. We’re all behind you.”
Dalglish’s announcement comes just a day after another Liverpool great, Kevin Keegan, revealed that he has been diagnosed with stage four cancer.
