Celtic release official statement on Parkhead icon Danny McGrain

Celtic have confirmed that club legend Danny McGrain has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, with his family choosing to share the news with supporters.

The club said it has remained in close contact with McGrain’s family throughout his diagnosis. His wife Laraine and their daughters, Vicki, Dawn and Carly, recently decided they wanted Celtic supporters to be aware of the situation so the former Scotland international could continue to receive the backing of the Celtic family.

McGrain is continuing to deal with the condition privately alongside his loved ones. Despite the challenges brought by his diagnosis, Celtic say he remains in good spirits and continues to spend time with his family, follow football and maintain his connection with the club.

One of Celtic’s most celebrated figures, McGrain made 663 competitive appearances for the club between 1970 and 1987. During his time in Glasgow, he won seven Scottish league titles, five Scottish Cups and two Scottish League Cups, while his 20-year association with Celtic extended beyond his playing career.

McGrain also earned 62 Scotland caps and has long been regarded as one of the finest full-backs Scotland has produced. During the 1970s, he was widely recognised by fellow players, journalists and football experts as one of the outstanding right-backs in world football.

His relationship with Celtic has continued throughout the years. McGrain has held various coaching positions, contributed to the club’s youth development work through Celtic Pools and regularly welcomed supporters at Celtic Park through hospitality duties.

His wife Laraine explained that McGrain had received the diagnosis some time ago and that the family had now decided the time was right to speak publicly about his condition.

She highlighted how much McGrain has valued his relationship with supporters throughout his life, recalling his involvement in hospital visits, charity events and messages of encouragement to fans.

However, as the disease has progressed, those activities have become increasingly difficult for him.

Laraine said the family wanted supporters to understand what McGrain is facing while maintaining the dignity and privacy that has always been important to them.

The family also acknowledged that many people are affected by Alzheimer’s disease and similar challenges, describing it as a journey that no family would willingly choose to face.

McGrain remains surrounded by his family and loved ones, who continue to provide him with the care and support he has given to others throughout his life.

Celtic chief executive Michael Nicholson paid tribute to McGrain and reaffirmed the club’s commitment to supporting him and his family.

Nicholson described McGrain as one of the greatest figures in Celtic’s history and expressed gratitude for everything he has contributed to the club and its supporters.

He also said Celtic would respect the openness shown by McGrain’s family and ensure that the former defender and his loved ones receive the club’s full support and care in the period ahead.