Kenny Dalglish did not plan to go public. The 75-year-old Scottish football legend confirmed he is undergoing cancer treatment after what he described as an accidental social media post forced his hand.
"I am currently undergoing treatment for cancer," Dalglish wrote. "Unlike my mobile phone use, the treatment is going well."
He explained that he had intended to keep the diagnosis private. "Ideally, this would have remained private because that's the way it should be, but my useless technology skills have forced my hand," he wrote. "Obviously I did not mean to make this matter public so I would appreciate it if the privacy of my family and myself are respected."
Dalglish also took a moment to acknowledge those caring for him. "As ever, thank you to the wonderful medical staff who have shown incredible care and discretion, not just for me but for many, many others. They are a credit to themselves," he wrote.
According to BBC Sport, Dalglish is Scotland's most capped player and holds a joint national record of 30 goals in 102 appearances alongside Denis Law. At Celtic from 1969 to 1977, he scored 167 goals in 320 appearances and won four league titles and four Scottish Cups.
He signed for Liverpool for a British record fee of £440,000 and became central to one of the most successful periods in the club's history. He made 515 appearances, helping Liverpool win three European Cups and eight First Division titles. In 1985 he became player-manager and guided the club to two FA Cups. He also led Liverpool through the aftermath of the Hillsborough disaster in 1989.
After Liverpool, he managed Blackburn Rovers to the Premier League title in 1995, then had spells at Newcastle, Celtic, and returned to Liverpool in 2011 to 2012.
Former Liverpool striker Ian Rush responded to the news on social media. "The King is one of the strongest and most positive people I've ever known. If anyone can face this battle with courage and determination, it's King Kenny. We're all behind you," Rush posted.
Liverpool FC released a statement expressing support. The club said the support, best wishes, and love of everyone at Liverpool FC are and will be with Sir Kenny and his family.
The news came a day after another Liverpool great, Kevin Keegan, revealed he has stage four cancer.
