WBA player Barry’s bro dies in crash
Marc and Gareth EX-ENGLAND football star Gareth Barry’s brother has died in a road crash.
Marc, 39, a dad of two sons, was driving a van that collided with a car.
Dad Stan said: “We are all totally devastated our Marc has been taken away from us in his prime. It is something as a family we will never get over.
“I thank everyone for the support and kind wishes we have received since Marc’s passing.”
Police are investigating the smash, between Westfield and Brede, East Sussex, on July 19.
West Bromwich Albion gave Gareth, 37, compassionate leave and he has returned to training.
The midfielder, who also played for Everton, Man City and Aston Villa, won 53 caps with England.
IN HIS VIDEO MESSAGE TO HOSPITAL STAFF AND FANS
With his wife Cathy SIR Alex Ferguson looked trim and healthy as he spoke for the first time about his near fatal brain haemorrhage yesterday.
And the Manchester United legend praised the dedicated hospital staff who saved him from certain death after he collapsed three months ago.
The 76-year-old told how the global messages of support lifted his spirits as he recovered.
He also vowed to be back at Old Trafford soon to watch his beloved Red Devils in action.
Fergie said: “Just a quick message first to thank the medical staff at Macclesfield, Salford Royal and Alexandra hospitals
Believe me, without those people, who gave me such great care, I would not be sitting here today.
“So, thank you from me and my family. It has made me feel so humble, as have all the messages I have had from all over the world, wishing me the best, and the good wishes to resonate very strongly with me.
“So thank you for that support you have given me.
“And lastly, I will be back later in the season to watch the team.”
It is understood Labour and NHS supporter Sir Alex was released from hospital just over six weeks ago after doctors told him he was lucky to be alive.
His surprise appearance in a video tweeted by United delighted current and former club players. Wayne Rooney, now at DC United in America, tweeted: “Brilliant to see.” Former United goalie Edwin van der Sar said: “I had a nice conversation with the Boss last week and great to see he is making progress in his recovery.
“This is close to our situation in 2009 when my wife Annemarie had a brain haemorrhage. He was very supportive as always.”
Striker Marcus Rashford added: “Looking well, Sir Alex.”
Some of Fergie’s old foes also sent messages of support.
Former Manchester City manager Peter Reid tweeted: “Great news, had a cuppa with him today, in fine form.”
Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler added: “Great to see.”
The Anfield club said: “Best wishes from all at Liverpool.”
Sir Alex collapsed at his home in Wilmslow, Cheshire, in May.
He was taken to Macclesfield District Hospital and transferred to Salford Royal, both NHS, where he had surgery.
He was placed in intensive care, with his wife Cathy and their family at his bedside.
It was believed Sir Alex suffered a subarachnoid haemorrhage – a bleed between the skull and brain surface – which kills about one in five people immediately.
It can cause speech loss and paralysis, but up to half of all patients make a full recovery.
Sir Alex won 38 trophies in 26 years at United, including the 1999 and 2008 Champions League. Our splash on collapse
Champions League win with United in 1999
Thank you. It has made me feel so humble, as have all the messages from around world SIR ALEX