George Burley, the former manager of Scotland, has received a cancer diagnosis.
The 68-year-old, who coached his country from 2008 to 2009 and earned 11 caps for Scotland, disclosed that he is receiving treatment for the illness in a statement issued by Ipswich Town, where he is revered as a club hero.
More than any other player in the club’s history, Burley played and managed for Ipswich in 500 games. Under Sir Bobby Robson, the former defender assisted Town in winning the 1978 FA Cup and the 1981 UEFA Cup. In the 2000 Championship play-off final at Wembley, he led Ipswich back into the top tier as manager. His team went on to finish fifth in the Premier League and qualify for Europe.
In 2005, Burley managed Hearts for a brief but fruitful period, leading the team to the top of the Scottish Premiership before stepping down owing to irreconcilable issues with the board. Burley stated, “After feeling unwell earlier this year, I have recently received a diagnosis and I am taking positive action to fight the disease,” in an Ipswich statement. Though it has been a challenging period, I am feeling much better now. I can actually attend games at Portman Road, and I’m having fun seeing the team play in the Premier League again.
“We would like everyone to respect our privacy at this time. We are grateful to the club for the support they have shown me and my family,” Burley continued.
Former Derby, Crystal Palace and Southampton manager Burley has further backing from Kieran McKenna, the current manager of Ipswich, whose team ended a 22-year hiatus by winning promotion back to the top tier last season.
George is without a doubt one of the greatest managers this club has ever had, according to McKenna. “Since coming to Ipswich, getting to know George has been a pleasure. He is a character that is full of positivity and optimism, and I have no doubt that he will carry that mentality into the current battle. All of us are right behind him.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with George, his wife Jill, and their family,” said Mark Ashton, chairman of Ipswich. On a matchday, it’s always wonderful to have him here in the directors’ box, and we will do everything in our power to help one of our all-time greats, who stands apart as a manager as well as a player.
“Wishing our former Men’s National Team manager George Burley well, as he begins treatment for cancer,” was the message posted on the Scotland National Team X account. Hearts also sent a note on their Facebook page that said, “Our former manager, George Burley, is receiving treatment for cancer. Our thoughts and best wishes are with him.”
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