Cancer (disease)

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    ‘Please forgive me’ – F1 legend Eddie Jordan apologises live on radio and says ‘I’m not myself’ after cancer treatment

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    FORMULA One legend Eddie Jordan touchingly apologised on live radio after revealing he’s “not himself” following a dose of cancer treatment.Jordan revealed that he is battling an “aggressive” form of prostate and bladder cancer, which spread to his spine and pelvis, late last year.Eddie Jordan is bravely battling cancerCredit: SplashThe former F1 team owner was on talkSPORT this morning discussing his takeover of London Irish.But it was the 76-year-old’s emotional plea and update on his diagnosis that moved listeners.Towards the end of the segment, Jordan said: “Sorry guys, just a small thing, thank you.”I’ve just come out of getting chemotherapy and I’m not 100 per cent together here guys.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”I’m just not myself at this moment in time. I’m a little all over the place, so please forgive me.”His heartbreaking appeal clearly touched presenter Alan Brazil, who urged him “not to worry” and offered him support.Brazil, 65, said: “I wasn’t going to bring it up. But listen, if we can get this out to people, it’s encouraging. Well done you.”A shaken Jordan replied: “I just had a big deal of it yesterday, so I’m sorry, I’m not quite myself.”Most read in MotorsportBrazil replied: “Take care Eddie, don’t you worry, you were fine. Get your health better and come back to us with more positive news about London Irish.”Fellow talkSPORT host Gabby Agbonlahor added: “Eddie Jordan, top man.”F1 legend Eddie Jordan, 76, reveals he is battling ‘aggressive’ cancer as he urges ‘go and get tested’ Back in December, Jordan revealed he went through some “dark days” as the cancer spread to different parts of his body.He urged people to go out and get tested and spoke about the importance of looking after one’s body.But the Irish businessman – who was a former shareholder in Celtic football club – is still working to extend his legendary career in sport management.Consortium Strangford Ellis Ltd, managed by Jordan Associates, has agreed a deal to buy London Irish out of administration.The Dubliner – former team owner of Jordan Grand Prix that gave Michael Schumacher his Formula One debut – is chairman of Jordan Associates.It comes just over a year after the Premiership club was suspended from all rugby activities in June 2023 for failing to pay its players.London Irish went bust with more than £30m of unpaid bills and have been looking for investment since.In a statement, the club said: “The Jordan Associates team will now turn its attention to negotiating a full and sustainable return for London Irish to competitive rugby, hand-in-hand with London Irish’s supporter base.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThey have acquired the intellectual property, brand and rights of London Irish but not the Hazelwood training centre.Jordan’s youngest son Kyle is a senior partner in the consortium.Jordan owned an F1 team for 14 years and gave Michael Schumacher his debutWhat are the symptoms of prostate cancer?Symptoms of prostate cancer can include:needing to pee more frequently, often during the nightneeding to rush to the toiletdifficulty in starting to pee (hesitancy)straining or taking a long time while peeingweak flowfeeling that your bladder has not emptied fullyblood in urine or blood in semenSource: NHS More

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      British boxing trainer Joe Gallagher, 56, diagnosed with bowel and liver cancer as he releases emotional statement

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      BRIT boxing coach Joe Gallagher has bravely revealed he’s battling cancer.The beloved trainer and manager is fighting stage four bowel and liver cancer, which he was diagnosed with last November.Boxing trainer Joe Gallagher has revealed he’s battling cancerCredit: MARK ROBINSONGallagher, 56, was diagnosed with stage four bowel and liver cancer last NovemberCredit: NEWS GROUP NEWSPAPERS LTDHe’s currently undergoing chemotherapyCredit: NEWS GROUP NEWSPAPERS LTDAnd the 56-year-old world championship trainer is now undergoing chemotherapy to prolong his life.He said in a statement: “It’s been a lot to take in over these past few months.”I just wanted to carry on as normal as possible while I tried to process things.”I would like to say no matter how busy life gets, your health should always come first. READ MORE BOXING NEWS”We can overlook things and put things off because we’re always so ‘busy’, but ultimately there’s nothing more important than your health.“I didn’t have any major symptoms, so if you feel something isn’t right, no matter how small, please don’t put it off – please go and get checked, as it could save your life.”I want to thank my family, friends, my fighters and the people I’ve been able to confide in so far on this journey, their support has been incredible.”Gallagher was inundated by scores of well-wishes from boxing fans after news of his diagnosis became public.Most read in BoxingJoe Gallagher used to work with former super-middleweight champion Callum SmithCredit: REUTERSOne fight fan wrote on X: “Send best wishes to Joe Gallagher.”Another said: “Praying for your successful fight back.”And another said: “Sad news I hope the brother makes a full recovery.”One remarked: “So sad keep fighting strong Joe Gallagher. “Far too much of this vile disease now.”Gallagher, the former trainer of ex-world champs Scott Quigg, Liam Smith and Anthony Crolla, is getting through the biggest fight of his life thanks to the help of his nearest and dearest.Joe Gallagher is the current training of unified light-middleweight champion Natasha JonasCredit: MATCHROOM BOXINGBut the Sweet Science is also helping him go toe-to-toe with the disease.The Manc said: “I know I have to prioritise my health at this time, yet boxing is giving me that bit of escapism I need right now. “As I go through my own battle, being around an incredible team of fighters is helping me continue to do what I love.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’ve only just begun my fight back against this disease.”There’s still so much I am processing, which is very hard to talk about right now; it’s also a very difficult time for my family & friends too.” More

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      LaLiga star Kirian Rodriguez confirms cancer has relapsed as he steps away from football to undergo chemotherapy

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      A LALIGA footballer has been forced to step away from the game indefinitely after his cancer returned.The relapse comes two-and-a-half years after he was first diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma.Las Palmas star Kirian Rodriguez’s cancer has relapsedCredit: GettyThe captain will miss the rest of the season as he undergoes chemotherapyCredit: RexKirian Rodriguez missed the first eight months of the 2022-23 season as he received treatment, returning to action in April 2023.Now, though, he faces another extended spell out after confirming his cancer is back.The Las Palmas captain, 28, revealed at a press conference on Thursday morning that he will now undergo chemotherapy and miss the rest of the season.But his return date is unknown as he focuses on his health. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLRodriguez said: “Thank the club and all the executives who are here, they have been very important to me. “Thank the coaching staff and my teammates for their decision not to accompany me here, I think they need to be focused on the game.”Yesterday they told me I have relapsed with cancer. “I will have to stop again and go through another round of chemotherapy to fight the disease.Most read in Football”I hope to see you all again in 2025-26, because I am 100 per cent convinced that the club, the players, and the coaching staff will see each other again in the First Division.”Rodriguez has been a key member of the Las Palmas starting XI once again this season, with the skipper missing just one LaLiga fixture in early October with a muscle injury. Charlie Watson discusses impact skin Cancer has on football careerWhat are the signs of lymphoma?LYMPHOMA is a term for cancer that starts in the lymph system – a network of vessels and glands that spans your body.There are two main kinds of lymphoma – Hodgkin Lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.Lymphoma can cause many different symptoms, depending on which type of lymphoma it is and where it develops in the body.The most typical signs are:Swollen lymph nodes, such as in the neck, armpit or groin areaNight sweatsExtreme tirednessItchingUnexplained weight lossFeverExcessive bleeding, such as nosebleeds, heavy periods and spots of blood under the skinOther signs of lymphoma in a more localised area include:Swelling of the stomach, loss of appetite and other abdominal symptomsCoughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain But the Las Palmas medical team grew concerned as the midfielder’s physical conditioning dipped in recent weeks. And the academy graduate – who has played all of his 134 professional matches for his boyhood club – was withdrawn midway through the second half against Girona on Monday as he struggled.That was the earliest he had been substituted all season – except for when he suffered the injury. Playmaker Rodriguez was unable to train on Tuesday or Wednesday before the announcement on Thursday. He received various messages of support following the press conference.Barcelona replied on X: “Much strength, Kirian.”We wish you encouragement and strength to face this challenge… we hope that we can see each other again soon on the field of play with the fighting spirit that you’ve already shownReal MadridMalaga wrote: “All the strength in the world. The spirit of Malaga is with you, Kirian.”A fan added: “Lots of encouragement, Kirian. You’re going to win this match, and by a landslide. Fans from all the teams in the league are eager to see you play as soon as possible.”Another typed: “Wishing Kirian a strong recovery and a swift return.”And Real Madrid shared this classy post: “Dear Kirian Rodríguez, we wish you encouragement and strength to face this challenge. “We hope that we can see each other again soon on the field of play with the fighting spirit that you’ve already shown. READ MORE SUN STORIES”Real Madrid and all the Madridistas will be supporting you in this challenge.”Las Palmas sit 15th in the LaLiga table after 22 matches, two points clear of the relegation zone. Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club.Rodriguez was subbed off early on Monday night against GironaCredit: RexHe has been a key player for the club since returning from his eight months out when he first had cancerCredit: Getty More

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      Treasures from Sven-Goran Eriksson’s career on sale including Armani suits & legendary kits…after he died £8m in debt

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      INCREDIBLE treasures owned by legendary manager Sven-Goran Eriksson have been put on sale – including a snazzy Armani suit and various winners medals.Football went into mourning when the legendary coach passed away from pancreatic cancer at the age of 76 in August last year.Valuable items once owned by the late Sven-Goran Eriksson have been put up for saleCredit: The TimesIncluded is the legend’s winning Serie A medal with LazioCredit: bna.nuweauctionsThe manager’s Armani suit he wore during his time as England boss will also be floggedCredit: bna.nuweauctionsEriksson was one of the country’s best performing managers, taking the national team to two World Cups and one Euros quarter final.But eye-opening accounts published in his native Sweden on January 14 reveal he had debts totalling 118 million kronor – the equivalent of £8.6 million – when he died.A staggering £7.2 million of that was owed to His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in the UK.Now, a cluster of the late manager’s valuable belongings have been flogged.read more Sven Goran ErikssonThe items all have a starting price of 100 Swedish Krona, equal to roughly £7. The splendid collection feature items commemorating Sven’s accomplished career as head coach of the England national team, Italian giants Lazio and Roma and in the Premier League with Manchester City, among others.The collection includes several Armani and Burton jackets from Eriksson’s time as England manager.An Ivory Coast jersey signed by iconic former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba is included in the auction, as are winning medals from Eriksson’s tenure guiding Lazio and Roma to silverware.Most read in FootballFor the former, punters can put in a bid for the legend’s eye-catching Serie A winners’ medal from the 1999/2000 season.For the latter, a Coppa Italia medal from the same year is available to buy.LIVE: Sven-Göran Eriksson is laid to rest at funeral in Torsby, SwedenAn award commemorating the Swede’s Premier League Manager of the Month award during his time as gaffer of Manchester City also features.LEGENDARY BOSSThe Swede became the first foreign manager of the England men’s football team in 2001.He managed superstars such as Wayne Rooney, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Rio Ferdinand, Paul Scholes, David Beckham and Michael Owen.During his time with England Eriksson managed 67 matches, he won 40 and lost 10 – of his 67 games 40 were competitive.Eriksson left the England role after the 2006 World Cup and would later manage a host of clubs at domestic and international level.Due to his health issues, he was sadly forced to step down as sporting director at Swedish club Karlstad in February 2023.After announcing his cancer diagnosis, Eriksson was granted his lifelong wish when he led out Liverpool Legends, as they played in a charity match against Ajax at Anfield in March.Revealing his illness in January, Eriksson told P1: “Everyone understands that I have an illness that is not good.”Everyone guesses it’s cancer and it is. But I have to fight as long as I can.”When asked about the prognosis, Eriksson said he has “maybe at best a year, at worst a little less, or at best maybe even longer”.He added: “You can’t be absolutely sure. It is better not to think about it.”But you can trick your brain. See the positive in things, don’t wallow in adversity, because this is the biggest adversity of course, but make something good out of it.”The 76-year-old has now seen his life chronicled in a documentary for Amazon Prime Video where he gave a touching farewell.TEARFUL FAREWELLSven gave a poignant final message to former players, coaches and supporters after speaking openly about his affairs and life in the film. In a touching clip at the end of the documentary, Sven told viewers: “I had a good life. I think we are all scared of the day when we die, but life is about death as well.”You have to learn to accept it for what it is. Hopefully at the end people will say, yeah, he was a good man, but everyone will not say that.“I hope you will remember me as a positive guy trying to do everything he could do. Don’t be sorry, smile.”Thank you for everything, coaches, players, the crowds, it’s been fantastic. Take care of yourself and take care of your life. And live it.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe film then pans back to Sven in his home, with the former England manager concluding his message with “bye”.During Eriksson’s time at the helm, England’s “Golden Generation” went from 17th in the world rankings to fifth.Sven-Goran Eriksson’s nabbed the Manager of the Month prize during his time as gaffer of Manchester CityCredit: bna.nuweauctionsIconic striker Didier Drogba’s gave his signed Ivory Coast jersey to his former managerCredit: bna.nuweauctionsA handful of other signed jerseys from previous teams Eriksson coached are included in the auctionCredit: bna.nuweauctionsSven-Goran Eriksson’s managerial careerFOLLOWING Sven-Goran Eriksson’s death from his battle with cancer, SunSport takes a look at his remarkable managerial career…PROMISING STARTIt began in Sweden in 1977 where he won the third division with Degerfors, before he joined Gothenburg and won two Swedish Cups and the Uefa Cup.He then took over at Benfica in 1982 and spent two seasons with the Portuguese giants where he won back-to-back league titles.INCREDIBLE ITALIAN SUCCESSStints followed in Italy with Roma and Fiorentina, but he returned to Benfica in 1989 and reached the European Cup final before losing to AC Milan.Eriksson claimed a third league title with Benfica the following year, leaving in 1992 for Sampdoria.He spent five seasons with the Serie A side, winning the Copa Italia in 1994.Eriksson then added another two Coppa Italias to his trophy cabinet with Lazio across a four-year spell.ENGLAND APPOINTMENTThen came the England job in 2001 where he spent five years at the helm of the national side.He reached the quarter-finals of World Cup 2002, losing 2-1 to eventual winners Brazil.England then suffered back-to-back eliminations at the hands of Portugal at Euro 2004 and World Cup 2006.PREMIER LEAGUE SPELLSAfter leaving the Three Lions following his third major tournament, he spent one season at Manchester City.Spells followed at Mexico, Ivory Coast and Leicester, before he moved to China where he coached three clubs across a four-year period.His last managerial stint came for the Philippines national team, a position he held from October 2018 to January 2019.MAJOR HONOURSPortugal League title x 3 (Benfica 82/83, 83/84, 90/91)Copa Italia x 4 (Roma 85/86, Sampdoria 93/94, Lazio 97/98, 99/00)Serie A title (Lazio 99/00)Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup (Lazio 98/99)Uefa Super Cup (Lazio 99)BBC Sports Personality Coach of the Year (England 2001) More

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      Ex-England & Man City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson died £8million in debt – as his house goes up for sale

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      SVEN-Goran Eriksson died £8million in debt with his house now up for sale, it is reported.Football went into mourning last August when the ex-England boss died from pancreatic cancer aged 76.Sven-Goran Eriksson died £8million in debt according to reports in SwedenCredit: GettyTributes flowed in after the death of Eriksson last AugustCredit: RexEriksson lived in the mansion for 22 years which is now up for saleCredit: AlamySven died after battling pancreatic cancerThe legendary coach’s estate was published today – showing he owed £8.6million when he passed away.The document reveals he owned £4.8million in assets, according to respected Swedish newspaper Gotesborg-Posten.However, the estate inventory is also said to show that he had debts totalling £8.6million.This means that the estate had a deficit of around £3.8million, reports the Mirror.Read More in FootballIt comes as Sven’s lakeside property on a secluded estate in Sunne, Sweden, has been made available for around £1.8million.Preparations to sell his seven-bedroom mansion, which has its own private beach, began in September.Eriksson paid £420,000 for the late-19th Century home in 2002 when he was Three Lions chief and his partner was Italian lawyer Nancy Dell’Olio.Agent Sotheby’s say he has since “left his personal mark on both the interior and exterior”.Most read in FootballThe property’s value soared to £3million in the last decade, but it has now fallen to almost half of that figure.The home, covering 835 square metres, has multiple reception rooms and a library. Sven-Goran Eriksson’s former mistress Faria Alam has bid him an emotional final farewellAnd it’s also as sporty as you might expect.A 250-square metre poolhouse sits outside, along with a saltwater pool, spa, sauna, jacuzzi, gym and relaxation area.There’s also a tennis court, jetty, a motorised floating platform, a sandy cove and waterside gazebos.Lawyer Anders Runebjer, who was a close friend of Eriksson’s, reportedly expects the home to sell quite easily.Runebjer believes the reduced valuation of £1.8m is more realistic for buyers, Swedish outlet Expressen reports.He also pointed to the freedom and natural setting offered by the property. Sven died on August 26 last year after suffering from pancreatic cancer.During a five-year spell in charge, Sven led England to quarter-final appearances at the World Cup in 2002 and 2006 as well as Euro 2004.Sven landed the Three Lions job after Kevin Keegan quit the post following England’s 1-0 loss to Germany in October 2000.He previously won a first Serie A title in 26 years with Lazio, and after stepping down with England went on to manage Manchester City and the Mexico national team.Due to his health issues, Eriksson was sadly forced to step down as sporting director at Swedish club Karlstad in February 2023.After bravely announcing his cancer diagnosis, he was granted his lifelong wish when he led out Liverpool Legends, as they played in a charity match against Ajax at Anfield in March.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Swede’s death sparked an outpouring of grief for the ex-Manchester City and Leicester boss.David Beckham and Roy Hodgson were among the mourners at Eriksson’s funeral in his home-town of Torsby, near Sunne.SVEN’S AMAZING CAREER1977 – Having played football professionally in Sweden, Sven-Goran Eriksson kicked off his managerial career with Swedish side Degerfors.2000 – He guided Lazio to the Serie A title to become one of the hottest coaches in the world.2001 – Following the resignation of Kevin Keegan, he was appointed England’s next permanent manager in February 2001. He oversaw 66 games with the Three Lions, winning 39 and losing just 12.2002 – Eriksson led England to the 2002 World Cup with the likes of Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes and David Beckham in his squad. The Three Lions were knocked out in the quarter-finals.2004 – The legendary manager also led the Three Lions to Euro 2004, but they were knocked out of the quarter-finals to Portugal.2006 – Eriksson led England to another World Cup, his final tournament in charge, before resigning.2007 – The Swede took charge of Manchester City a year after leaving the England job and oversaw 45 games.2010 – Having coached Mexico, Ivory Coast and Notts County after parting ways with Man City, Erikson took charge of Leicester and saved them from relegation. Following his time with the Foxes he went on to manage China and Philippines.2024 – In January 2024, Eriksson announced he had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. Three months later, he fulfilled a lifelong dream of managing Liverpool in a legends match at Anfield, before passing away in August.Sven-Goran Eriksson coaching Philippines in 2019Credit: GettyDavid Beckham was one of many stars who paid tribute to Sven-Goran Eriksson following his passingCredit: gettyEriksson bought his home for £420k and ‘left his personal mark’ on itCredit: Alamy More

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      Sven-Goran Eriksson’s former partner moves out of their home as mansion and farm are put up for sale for £1.8million

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      SVEN-GORAN ERIKSSON’S mansion is up for sale at a “bargain” price – and his former partner has moved out.Football went into mourning last August when the ex-England boss died from pancreatic cancer aged 76.Sven-Goran Eriksson lived in the mansion for 22 yearsCredit: AlamyEriksson bought it for £420k and ‘left his personal mark’ on itCredit: AlamyHis ex-partner Yaniseth Alcides has moved out and returned to PanamaCredit: RexNow his lakeside property on a secluded estate in Sunne, Sweden, has been made available for around £1.8million.  Meanwhile, Eriksson’s long-time girlfriend Yaniseth Alcides has returned to her native Panama.A wave of affectionate memories of the ex-Manchester City and Leicester boss swept across sport following the Swede’s death.David Beckham and Roy Hodgson were then among the mourners at Eriksson’s funeral in his home-town of Torsby, near Sunne.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPreparations to sell his seven-bedroom home, which has a private beach, began in September.Eriksson paid £420,000 for the late-19th century home in 2002 when he was Three Lions chief and his partner was Italian lawyer Nancy Dell’Olio.Agent Sotheby’s say he has since “left his personal mark on both the interior and exterior”.The property’s value soared to £3m in the last decade, but it’s now fallen to almost half of that figure.Most read in FootballAgents believe the reduced valuation will help it sell quicklyCredit: AlamyThe home could be a great escape as it’s so secludedCredit: AlamyA sizeable poolhouse is one of the special featuresCredit: AlamyThe home, covering 835 square metres, has multiple reception rooms and a library.And it’s also as sporty as you might expect.Sven-Goran Eriksson filmed his heartbreaking final goodbye alone – and his emotional message left film crew in tearsA 250-square metre poolhouse sits outside, along with a saltwater pool, spa, sauna, jacuzzi, gym and relaxation area.There’s also a tennis court, jetty, a motorized floating platform, a sandy cove and waterside gazebos.Lawyer Anders Runebjer, who was a close friend of Eriksson’s, reportedly expects the home to sell quite easily.Swedish outlet Expressen say Runebjer believes the reduced valuation of £1.8m is more realistic for buyers.He also pointed to the freedom and natural setting offered by the property. This outbuilding is part of the land for saleCredit: AlamyTributes flowed in after the death of Eriksson last AugustCredit: Rex More

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      West Ham legend Ludek Miklosko makes emotional return to club before Liverpool clash after revealing tragic cancer fight

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      WEST HAM legend Ludek Miklosko received a hero’s welcome from fans at the London Stadium after opening up on his heartbreaking battle with cancer.The former Hammers keeper, 63, was cheered onto the side of the pitch in emotional scenes ahead of his old club’s clash with Liverpool on Saturday evening.Ludek Miklosko walked out in front of the West Ham fans on Saturday eveningCredit: West HamHe wore a Hammers scarf in an emotional return to the clubCredit: ReutersMiklosko recently revealed the cancer diagnosis he received several years agoCredit: PAMiklosko revealed on Sunday that he was diagnosed three years ago after finding a small lump on his hip.Unfortunately despite the initial treatment going well, doctors subsequently discovered other tumours.And the Czech star has now decided against chemotherapy to ensure he has the best quality of life in his final days.West Ham faithful gave Miklosko a superb reception as he was seen for the first time since the news.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMiklosko wore a West Ham scarf, before the club tweeted: “We are all with you, Ludo.”Explaining his decision not to have treatment, he told West Ham’s official website: “I was thinking about this, and had another conversation with the doctor in Ostrava.”And it was made clear to me that there could be no guarantees that it would work.”Maybe it would help to slow it down a little bit, but it would not stop it and there would be other issues to deal with.Most read in Football”I decided not to take the chemotherapy, because I want to live a normal life.Ludek Miklosko spent eight years as a keeper at West HamCredit: PAHe returned to the London Stadium on Saturday eveningCredit: Getty”I have very good people around me, and I have my work and my football, which is my life, all I have known. I want to keep doing that for as long as I can.”Miklosko upped sticks from his native Czech Republic with his wife and son in February 1990 to join the Hammers.He went on to make 318 appearances for the East Londoners during an eight-year stint.Miklosko and his family enjoyed their time in England, so much that his son asked him to move back to London after they returned to the Czech Republic.Miklosko was also in attendance for West Ham’s Europa Conference League final triumph against Fiorentina last summer.Miklosko played more than 300 games for West HamCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd More

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      West Ham icon Ludek Miklosko reveals heartbreaking cancer battle and stops treatment to ‘enjoy best quality of life’

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      WEST HAM hero Ludek Miklosko has revealed he’s been battling cancer for the last few years.The former Hammers stopper discovered he was fighting the deadly disease three years ago after finding a small lump on his hip.Former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko has revealed he’s battling cancerCredit: GETTYMiklosko discovered he had a growth on his hip three years agoCredit: GETTYBut it later emerged the former Czech stopper had an inoperable tumour in his stomach along with several smaller onesCredit: REXThe 63-year-old has opted not to undergo chemotherapy, which doctors couldn’t guarantee him would be a successCredit: GETTYThe 63-year-old’s initial treatment went well, although doctors failed to discover several other tumours in his body – including an inoperable stomach tumour.Miklosko underwent radiotherapy to shrink the growth but doctors soon discovered there were several other tumours.The only option left for Miklosko was chemotherapy, which doctors couldn’t guarantee would be a success.So the retired keeper has made the heartbreaking decision not to have treatment to ensure he has the best quality in his final days.READ MORE WEST HAM NEWSExplaining his decision, he told West Ham’s official website: “I was thinking about this, and had another conversation with the doctor in Ostrava.”And it was made clear to me that there could be no guarantees that it would work. “Maybe it would help to slow it down a little bit, but it would not stop it and there would be other issues to deal with.“I decided not to take the chemotherapy, because I want to live a normal life.Most read in FootballThe day Miklosko denied Man Utd the titleBy Henry TomlinsonLUDEK MIKLOSKO was once responsible for denying Manchester United a Premier League title.On the final day of the 1994/95 season, the Red Devils travelled to the former home of West Ham, the Boleyn Ground.Sir Alex Ferguson’s side needed to better the result of Blackburn in order to secure their third successive title.The Hammers had confirmed their spot in the league with a 3-0 win over Liverpool in the match before.Despite having nothing to play for, Michael Hughes caused a shock when he put the hosts ahead.Brian McClair levelled for Man United after the break and put them just one goal from claiming the title.However, Miklosko put in a brilliant performance in which he denied Ferguson’s men time and time again.Blackburn lost their match at Anfield 2-1 but the draw would not be enough for Man United.Miklosko spoke about the game in 2020 and has admitted he never tires of talking about it.He said: “I have been asked about the 1-1 draw with Manchester United at the Boleyn Ground in May 1995 so many times, but I will never get tired of talking about it.“In fact, I was at Manchester United’s training ground recently with some young goalkeepers – I am now a player representative – and there were staff members there who remembered that game.“Some of them came up to me and talked about the game and a few of them said ‘I was there and remember that game and I hated you!’. We had a good laugh about it.“It was one of those games when everything went for me, but it was also a good team performance, too.“We scored a good goal and we defended so well to stop Manchester United, who were a very good team and wanted to win the title on the final day of the season.””I have very good people around me, and I have my work and my football, which is my life, all I have known. I want to keep doing that for as long as I can.”Miklosko was put off undergoing the gruelling and debilitating chemo once it was made clear to him that his entire life would be put on hold.Meet West Ham wonderkid Kaelan CaseyHe said: “When they told me about what the chemotherapy would mean, it was a case of not being able to work or be around my colleagues for around six months, not travel, have some sickness and everything else.”And I said, ‘No – I do not want that. There is no point. “I want to live my life.'”Miklosko will be in attendance at the Olympic Stadium this evening for the Hammers’ clash with Prem table-toppers Liverpool.The club will pay tribute to their former keeper ten minutes before kick-off.Miklosko is looking forward to returning to East London, saying: “It will be very special to me.Ludek Miklosko has opted not to undergo chemotherapy in order to have a better quality of lifeCredit: REX“And, of course, the supporters. “After all these years, they still remember me, still sing my name, and that is a great feeling.“I have two football clubs in my heart, Banik Ostrava and West Ham United, and in a funny way they are very similar. “Even the mentality of the fans, very similar. Hard-working people, loyal and passionate. “If I am ever doing an interview here in the Czech Republic, I am always saying this and making this comparison.“West Ham United is my second family. And I really am looking forward to seeing everyone on Sunday.”Miklosko was in attendance for West Ham’s Europa Conference League final triumph against Fiorentina last summer.Ludek Miklosko has fond memories of his time with West HamCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdMiklosko upped sticks from his native Czech Republic with his wife and son in February 1990 to join the Hammers. He’d go on to make 318 appearances for the East Londoners during an eight-year stint. Miklosko and his family enjoyed their time in England, so much that his son asked him to move back to Old Blighty after they returned to the Czech Republic. He told The Athletic: “When we moved back to [the] Czech Republic, my son begged me and his mum to leave him in England.“He went from saying, ‘Why on earth are we here?’ to wanting to stay there without us. READ MORE SUN STORIES”Seeing my son overcome his struggles put a big smile on my face. Me joining “West Ham worked out well for all of us.” More

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      ‘I had some very dark times & my body has been through hell’ – ‘Voice of Boxing’ opens up on heartbreaking cancer battle

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      ADAM SMITH has bravely opened up on his battle with cancer, which at times left him in a “dark” place.The beloved boxing commentator was diagnosed with an “aggressive” form of bladder cancer in 2023.Former Sky Sports boxing commentator Adam Smith was diagnosed with an “aggressive” form of bladder cancer last yearCredit: GettySmith was days away from dying before having 19 lymph nodes, his bladder and prostate removedCredit: GETTYSmith went through some “dark times” during his recoveryCredit: GETTYA massive tumour situated next to Smith’s bladder wall left him “about four days” away from death.A six-hour operation, in which 19 lymph nodes were removed as well as his bladder and prostrate, saved ‘The Voice of Boxing’.Smith would then undergo three-and-a-half months of gruelling chemotherapy.And the gruelling toe-to-toe battle with the disease took its toll mentally and physically.READ MORE BOXING NEWSHe told DAZN ahead of Tyson Fury’s rematch with Oleksandr Usyk: “I am very lucky and honoured to be doing this job and watching these fine boxers.”Whether it is calling a four-round fight between two debutants or a world title fight, I love it all and am grateful to be doing such a job, if you can really call it a job.”The cancer was brutal, it has been very difficult to fight this disease.”I had some very dark times and my body has been through hell.”Most read in BoxingAdam Smith credits his family for getting him through his battle as much as the doctors who saved himCredit: REUTERSSmith credits the support of his family for getting him through the fight of his life.”My doctors saved me, my family brought me back,” he said. “I had three-and-a-half lonely months in hospital undergoing treatment. Tyson Fury gives cryptic update on his future after Oleksandr Usyk defeat as retirement rumours circle”I was very lucky to make it through. I am very lucky to be alive and I have a different perspective on life after what happened to me.”I wake up in the morning and I am happy, I am not stressed. I am just delighted to have another day.”Reflecting on his health back in September, Smith told The Independent: “I look healthy, but underneath is a wrecked body.“I’ve lost major parts of it. A lot of people are in much worse situations, but it’s a tough new life.”You have tubes at night, it’s not easy. And after the operation, last spring, I got an ileus: my entire body was blocked, food wouldn’t go through for 10 days.Adam Smith thought he wouldn’t win his cancer battleCredit: GETTY”I lost four stone in weight, then I had a twisted bowel. It all went wrong. I was a mess, I was in agony, I couldn’t move.“The hardest thing was learning to walk again; I had to sit on a chair in the shower for a couple of months, because I couldn’t stand.”But my family were unbelievable, Sky were amazing. I still had many, many lonely nights, but I owe everything to my doctors.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I saw my bladder consultant at the end of last year and I said: ‘I have to be honest, I didn’t think I’d make it.’ He said: ‘I’ve got to be honest, I didn’t think you would either.’” More