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Dalglish confirms cancer treatment following unintended disclosure
Scotland's most capped footballer, Sir Kenny Dalglish, has announced he is receiving treatment for cancer after an accidental social media post made the news public.
Statement from the football legend
In a message shared on Tuesday, the 75-year-old former forward and manager acknowledged the diagnosis while expressing regret over the premature disclosure. "I am currently undergoing treatment for cancer," Dalglish wrote. "Unlike my mobile phone use, the treatment is going well."
Dalglish explained that he had intended to keep the matter private but was compelled to address it after the unintended post. "Ideally, this would have remained private because that's the way it should be, but my useless technology skills have forced my hand," he added. He requested respect for his and his family's privacy.
"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."
Sir Kenny Dalglish
A storied career on and off the pitch
Dalglish is Scotland's joint-top scorer with 30 goals in 102 international appearances, a record he shares with Denis Law. He also holds the distinction of being the nation's most capped player.
His club career began at Celtic, where he netted 167 goals in 320 matches between 1969 and 1977, securing four league titles and four Scottish Cups. In 1977, he joined Liverpool for a then-British record fee of £440,000, becoming a cornerstone of the club's golden era. Over 515 appearances, he won three European Cups and eight First Division titles.
As player-manager from 1985, Dalglish led Liverpool to two FA Cups and steered the club through the aftermath of the 1989 Hillsborough disaster. His managerial career later included a Premier League title with Blackburn Rovers in 1995, as well as stints at Newcastle United, Celtic, and a second spell at Liverpool in 2011-2012.
Messages of support pour in
Liverpool FC issued a statement expressing solidarity with Dalglish and his family. "The support, best wishes and love of everyone at Liverpool FC are, and will be, with Sir Kenny and his family," the club said, echoing his call for privacy.
Former teammate Ian Rush paid tribute to Dalglish's resilience, 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."
Context amid recent health revelations
The announcement comes a day after another Liverpool legend, Kevin Keegan, disclosed he is battling stage four cancer. The news has prompted an outpouring of support from fans and figures across football.
