George Burley

[AzzurroMark]

My thoughts are with George & his family on hearing this news. Hoping only for positives for him from hereon in;

Ipswich Town legend George Burley has announced that he is currently undergoing treatment for cancer.

The 68-year-old has been involved in more matches than anyone in the club's history - 500 as a player and 413 as a manager.

A right-back, he was a key man during an era in which the Blues won the FA Cup (1978) and UEFA Cup (1981). The Scot then returned to lead the team to a Championship Play-Off Final win in 2000 at Wembley and a subsequent fifth-place finish in the Premier League.

In a statement released by the club, he said: "After feeling unwell earlier this year, I have recently received a diagnosis and I am taking positive action to fight the disease.

"It has been a difficult time, but I am feeling much brighter now. In fact, I am able to get to matches at Portman Road and I am enjoying watching the team playing back in the Premier League.

"We are grateful to the club for the support they have shown me and my family and I would ask that everyone is respectful of our privacy at this time."

Current Town manager Kieran McKenna said: "This club has had some brilliant managers and George is right up there as one of the very best.

"It has been a pleasure to get to know George since I arrived at Ipswich. He is a positive and optimistic character, and I know he will also take that attitude into the battle he now faces. We are all right behind him."

Ipswich chairman Mark Ashton added: "Our thoughts are with George, his wife Jill and their family. It's always great to see him here in the directors' box on a matchday and we will do everything we can to support one of our all-time greats, uniquely as both a player and manager."

The statement adds that neither George or the club will be making any further comment at this stage.

EADT

[hallamblue]

Just seen this. Thanks AM…. Bit of a shock nonetheless.

C’mon George, we’re all with you on this one.

[Cabanas Blue]

I wish the great man a full and hopefully speedy recovery.

[valleyroad]

Don't like the tone of the statement. Doesn't sound great.
Top man George and really hope he wins this fight.

[Bluemike]

Sending my best wishes to one of our true greats. Get this beat George.

[arana peligrosa]

One of our most decorated players and manager from team history and only gets four replies, maybe George deserves better than that but take this opportunity to wish the man well and every success in overcoming this beastly affliction. In retrospect we were fortunate to possess an individual like that both in a playing and managerial capacity. I wish him well and (rapid) complete recovery. Best to the family.

[Charnwood]

Wishing one of my favourite ex Town full backs a full and speedy recovery from his recently diagnosed cancer. Always good to see you back at Portman Road George, long may it continue.

[shabba]

Total legend of Town. Hope he gets better soon.