Celtic great reveals Alzheimer’s diagnosis - 'I thought I was just ageing'

Celtic great Jim Craig has revealed he has Alzheimer’s disease.

The 83-year-old is one of only three living members of the Glasgow club’s famous 1967 European Cup-winning team.

Craig, who made more than 230 appearances for Celtic, told The Herald that he was diagnosed with the irreversible brain disorder in 2022.

Lisbon Lion Jim Craig has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease. (Photo by Paul Devlin / SNS Group) | SNS Group

“I was pleased that they diagnosed something wrong, because I thought I was just ageing,” he said. “But I was a bit surprised to hear what it was, and I find it very frustrating.

“I’m OK with the old days and the football and family memories. I’m Ok with them. It’s the recent, modern things I have trouble with.”

Several former footballers have been diagnosed with brain conditions linked to heading heavy footballs, but Craig is unconvinced that his situation is linked to his career.

“I heard about that in other people and thought, ‘No, I’m not sure that’s to do with playing football’,” he said.

“I just lived from day to day and I’m still not sure. I mean, I always tried to head the ball as little as humanly possible when I played.

“I tried to keep my head away from it, but we played with those heavy leather balls in those days.”

Craig’s wife, Elisabeth, added: “I think a lot of people know now (about the diagnosis) and have been very understanding and very caring. It’s something that we manage and we navigate our way around.”

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