CELTIC great Danny McGrain, 76, has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
The club released a statement today concerning the former Hoops’ fans’ favourite and former Scotland international right-back.
It read: “Celtic Football Club is today sharing the news with supporters that club legend, Danny McGrain, has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
“The club has been in close contact with Danny’s family throughout this time.
“In recent weeks, Laraine and their daughters, Vicki, Dawn and Carly, decided that, through the club, they wanted to be open with supporters so that Danny can continue to receive the love and support of the Celtic Family, just as he has given so freely and humbly to others throughout his life.
“Danny is continuing to manage this diagnosis privately with his family. Despite the changes this diagnosis has brought, Danny remains in good spirits, enjoying time with his loved ones, following the game, and staying close to the club he holds so dear.
TOP MAN…Danny McGrain is lifted shoulder-high as Celtic celebrate their unforgettable title success with a 4-2 triumph over Rangers at Parkhead on May 21 1979.
“One of football’s true legends, Danny played 663 competitive games for Celtic between 1970 and 1987, winning seven League Championships, five Scottish Cups, and two Scottish League Cups across a 20-year association with Celtic as a player, while earning 62 caps for Scotland.
“Regarded as Scotland’s greatest-ever full-back, he was widely considered by football experts, journalists, and peers to be the finest right-back in world football during the 1970s. Danny has remained a constant presence at Celtic over the years through a range of coaching roles, supporting our Youth Development Programme via Celtic Pools, and hosting hospitality at Celtic Park.
“Danny’s wife, Laraine, said: ‘Danny received this diagnosis some time ago, and as time has moved on, we felt it was right to be open and clear. Danny has always loved helping supporters – whether through hospital visits, assisting fans with charity events, or sending messages of support.
“‘As time has gone on, that has become more difficult for Danny, so we wanted to explain his situation with honesty, and with the care and respect the Celtic Family has always shown us.’
“So many families face challenges like this disease, and it is a journey no family wants to face. Danny is surrounded by people who love him, and his family continues to give him the same love and support he has always shown to others.”
UP, UP AND AWAY…Danny McGrain takes to the air to clear with team-mate Roy Aitken and Rangers’ Bobby Russell looking on in a derby duel at Parkhead.
Michael Nicholson, Celtic’s Chief Executive, added: “When we talk about Celtic legends, Danny will always be right at the top of that list. He is a true great of the game, and we are deeply grateful for everything he has given to Celtic and to the people around him.
“Danny has meant so much to so many supporters, and at this time we fully respect the openness shown by Danny’s family. The whole club will ensure Danny and his family receive our full support, care, and kindness throughout what lies ahead.”
McGrain signed for Celtic in 1967, the year Jock Stein’s all-conquering side made history by becoming the first UK team to win the European Cup as well as the domestic clean sweep.
The energetic, pacy right-sided defender eventually took Lisbon Lion Jim Craig’s place in the team and made his debut in a 2-2 League Cup draw against Dundee United at Tannadice in August 1970.
McGrain starred for Scotland in the World Cup Finals in 1974, the same year he was diagnosed with diabetes.
He also missed 16 months of action following an ankle injury in 1977, but, as ever, fought back to prove he was a winner.
WANT TO KNOW A SECRET? Celtic Confidential is the stunning book that brings the exclusive inside stories behind the headlines. Who was the tycoon who would have ruined Celtic? What really happened the night Kenny Dalglish quit the club? The real story behind Mo Johnston’s sensational move to Ibrox. All is revealed in Alex Gordon’s sixteenth Celtic book which is available NOW. Order a copy and get £5 OFF the cover price of £25. Just click SHOP HERE and your book will be on its way. Enjoy the revelations!
