Sir Kenny Dalglish has received an outpouring of support from football icons including Steven Gerrard and Alan Shearer after confirming he is undergoing treatment for cancer. The Liverpool legend issued a statement on Tuesday, clarifying that his diagnosis was inadvertently made public due to a mistaken social media post.
Dalglish's Statement on His Diagnosis
In his statement, Dalglish said: "As my inadvertent social media post has indicated, I am currently undergoing treatment for cancer. 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." He also thanked medical staff for their care and discretion.
Messages of Support from Football Legends
Steven Gerrard wrote: "Sending our love Sir Kenny." Alan Shearer, whom Dalglish managed to the Premier League title at Blackburn Rovers in 1995, posted: "Everyone is with you Kenny." Former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler said: "Sending you lots of love Sir king," while Jamie Carragher added: "Sending all our love Kenny." Current Liverpool players Jordan Henderson, Andy Robertson, and Harvey Elliott replied with red heart emojis. Former Reds goalkeeper Sander Westerveld wrote: "YNWA, King!"
Club and Fan Reactions
Liverpool FC released a statement: "The support, best wishes and love of everyone at Liverpool FC are, and will continue to be, with Sir Kenny and his family. The club would also like to underscore his request for privacy moving forward." Newcastle United, another of Dalglish's former clubs, posted: "Everyone at Newcastle United extends love and best wishes to Sir Kenny Dalglish and his family." Blackburn Rovers also expressed their support.
Dalglish's Legacy and Family
Dalglish won eight league titles as a player and manager at Liverpool between 1979 and 1990, along with European Cups, FA Cups, and League Cups. His wife Marina was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003 but recovered after treatment; she later founded the Marina Dalglish Appeal and received an MBE. Dalglish remains a figure at Liverpool games and was involved in the on-field pitch presentation on the final day of the Premier League season.
