Former Celtic manager John Barnes has revealed he successfully battled prostate cancer after being encouraged by his children to get checked.
The news comes only hours after Celtic legend Kenny Dalglish publicly announced he is currently battling the disease himself.
Barnes admitted that “not many people know” about his own diagnosis, having largely kept the situation private.
Speaking to Times Radio, the former Celtic boss explained that his children pushed him to undergo testing – something he is now hugely grateful for.
He also used the opportunity to encourage more men to speak openly about health concerns and not avoid examinations out of embarrassment or pride.
Barnes said:
“Men have to then bite the bullet and swallow their pride and admit if they have problems and say it.
“So it’s a good thing that that has come out.”
Thankfully, Barnes confirmed he is now doing well following treatment.
“I’m fine.
“I have my PSA and everything is okay.”
The former manager then addressed why he believes many men still hesitate to get checked for prostate cancer.
“The thing about it is that a lot of men don’t want to admit it or want to have it done because it makes them feel less than a man.
“But you’re not, you’re exactly the same, you’re the same person and you’re around and that’s the main thing.”
Barnes’ comments will likely resonate strongly across football following Dalglish’s own announcement earlier in the day, with both former Celtic figures now helping raise awareness around the importance of early testing and diagnosis.
Our thoughts and prayers are with both John and Kenny and we wish them the best of health.
