Danny McGrain, 76, has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, and his family have now explained why they chose to speak openly. Laraine McGrain said he received the diagnosis some time ago, and that disclosure felt right as his day-to-day involvement became more difficult. The point of going public was clear: to keep the support around him in place.

The family’s reason for speaking now

Laraine McGrain said: "Danny received this diagnosis some time ago, and as time has moved on, we felt it was right to be open and clear."

She added: "As time has gone on, that has become more difficult for Danny, so we wanted to explain his situation with honesty and with the care and respect the Celtic family has always shown us."

That honesty is tied to the way McGrain has always been part of the club's life. Laraine said he has loved helping supporters through hospital visits, charity events and messages of support. The family want that connection to continue, and the reaction from Celtic has matched the tone of the statement.

Celtic's response to one of their greatest figures

Michael Nicholson said: "When we talk about Celtic legends, Danny will always be right at the top of that list. He is a true great of the game, and we are deeply grateful for everything he has given to Celtic and to the people around him."

He also said the club would ensure Danny and his family receive "full support, care and kindness throughout what lies ahead".

McGrain's standing at Celtic is not in doubt. He played 663 games for the club between 1970 and 1987, spent 17 years there, and won seven League Championships, five Scottish Cups and two Scottish League Cups. Celtic have also described him as "Scotland's greatest-ever full-back", while he earned 62 caps for Scotland and played at the 1974 and 1982 World Cups.

The club part of the story is obvious enough, but the family have made the reason for speaking public just as clear. They want McGrain to keep receiving the care and support that has followed him for decades, and Celtic have said they will provide it.

Written by Sam Whitfield with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 3 outlets. How we work →