Danny McGrain, described by Celtic as "Scotland's greatest-ever full-back", has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, his family has confirmed. Speaking to the club's website, wife Laraine McGrain said she wanted to explain why the 76-year-old had become less involved with the Scottish champions and their fans. "Danny received this diagnosis some time ago and, as time has moved on, we felt it was right to be open and clear," she said.
"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." Why does Sutton have 'great concerns' about Celtic? McGregor laments Celtic's 'team of individuals' McGrain, who played 62 times for Scotland, came through Celtic's youth ranks and spent 17 years with the Glasgow club.
He had one season with Hamilton Academical before ending his distinguished career in 1988 and going on to manage Arbroath for two seasons. Celtic point out that he "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". "In recent weeks, Laraine and their daughters, Vicki, Dawn and Carly, decided 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," the club state.
"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." As a player, McGrain became a Celtic legend, with the club pointing out that "he was widely considered by football experts, journalists, and peers to be the finest right-back in world football during the 1970s". Overall, he played 663 games for Celtic between 1970 and 1987, winning seven League Championships, five Scottish Cups and two Scottish League Cups before helping Accies win promotion to the top flight in his final season. Visit our Celtic page for all the latest news, analysis and fan views Get Celtic news notifications in the BBC Sport app
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