Aston Villa legend Gordon Cowans diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease

The 61-year-old was famously part of Villa’s European Cup-winning squad and amassed more than 450 appearances in claret and blue, scoring 49 goals over three spells with the club.

Cowans also played for Wolves in the latter stages of his career, making 37 appearances after moving to Molineux from Derby County in 1994.

In a statement published online yesterday, Cowans confirmed his diagnosis but admitted his prognosis was ‘a good one’.

The statement read: “Dear friends and supporters. In an attempt to stop speculation and misinformation about my health, I have decided to release the following statement.

“After a series of recent tests, I have been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease.

“Medication has been prescribed with some life changes, which I intend to commit to fully, and the prognosis is a good one.

“I will be out and about for many years yet and see this as just another of life’s journeys.

“My matchday duties with Aston Villa will remain an important part of my future and I will continue to perform these, in support of my beloved club, for as long as my health allows.

“With the love and support of family and close friends guaranteed, I am very optimistic and positive about the future. With love. Gordon (Sid) Cowans.”

The former midfielder earned 10 England caps, scoring twice for his country, and is widely rated as one of Villa’s best ever players.

He famously played every single game for the Villans between 1979 and 1983, before suffering a broken leg in pre-season – forcing him to miss the entirety of the 1983/4 season.

He went on to join Italian side Bari before heading back to the Midlands three years later.

After hanging up his boots, Cowans would later return to Villa in a coaching role, leaving the club in 2016.