John Toshack diagnosed with dementia
Liverpool and Wales legend John Toshack has been diagnosed with dementia, his son Cameron has revealed, reports BritPanorama.
The footballing icon rose to fame at Liverpool in the 1970s, where he developed an attacking partnership with Kevin Keegan. The pair won nine trophies, including three First Division titles, the FA Cup, and achieved major European success by lifting the European Cup in 1977 and the Uefa Cup twice.
The 77-year-old went on to player-manage Swansea City, leading the Welsh side from the Fourth Division to the top of the First Division in just four seasons. In that time, he led the Swans to three consecutive Welsh Cup victories between 1981 and 1983.
The former striker, who made 40 caps for Wales as a player, also managed the national team and Real Madrid. Toshack led the Spanish giants to the La Liga title in the 1989-90 season, setting a then-record 107 goals. He also found great success with Real Sociedad, winning the Copa del Rey in 1987, and with Deportivo de La Coruña, securing the Spanish Super Cup in 1995.
Now, his son Cameron issued a health update on the British sporting legend. He told the Daily Mail: “It’s a terrible disease. It’s the short-term memory where we’re seeing it – I speak to him most days and if we chat in the afternoon, he might not remember that we also spoke in the morning. But if I ask him about the Liverpool days, or Sociedad or Madrid, the detail is amazing.”
Cameron added: “The other day he was telling me about a Real Madrid game against Arrigo Saachi’s AC Milan and exactly how he tweaked his midfield to deal with Marco van Basten. The game could have been yesterday, his memory was so clear. I’ll talk to him about what we’re doing in Thailand and he still gives great advice. As a manager, he could always see two or three moves ahead, and it was always in the genes for me, really.”
As Toshack navigates this challenging phase, his legacy remains a testament to his profound impact on British football and beyond. With memories still vivid from his storied career, he stands as a cherished figure, reminding us all of the beautiful game’s lasting connection to its heroes.
