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Celtic legend Danny McGrain has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, the club have said.
The Hoops icon, 76, was regarded as one of the greatest full-backs of his generation and was once hailed as the best right-back in the world. He is still considered Scotland’s greatest ever full-back – almost 30 years after he retired.
In a heartbreaking statement issued by the Parkhead club, his family said they have decided to go public with the diagnosis “so he 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.”
Wife Laraine added: “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.”
Celtic said the former Scottish international – who made just shy of 700 appearances during a 17-year stint at the Bhoys – remained in “good spirits, enjoying time with his loved ones, following the game, and staying close to the club he holds so dear”.
Celtic chief executive Michael Nicholson said: “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 played 663 games for Celtic from 1970 to 1987, winning seven league titles, five Scottish Cups and two League Cups.
He came through the Celtic ranks in the post-Lisbon Lions era but trained alongside members of the legendary 1967 European Cup-winning side.
His career was almost cut short in only his 10th first-team appearance when he suffered a skull fracture following a clash of heads with Falkirk’s Doug Somner at Brockville in May 1972.
While he physically recovered, McGrain later revealed that manager Jock Stein helped give him the confidence to return to heading the ball. The defender spent days undertaking extra heading practice to convince himself he was ready to play again.
He went on to become a Celtic mainstay and one of the most decorated players in the club’s history. He earned 62 caps for Scotland and played in the 1974 and 1982 World Cups – he was unbeaten in five matches in the tournament.
The Glaswegian missed the 1978 edition through injury.
He helped Hamilton secure promotion to the top flight after leaving Celtic and later managed Arbroath, before spending the bulk of the last 30 years working with Celtic in a number of coaching roles and off-field positions.