McQueen another victim of dementia

FORMER Scotland defender Gordon McQueen has vascular dementia.

His family revealed the 68-year-old, whose clubs included Manchester United and Leeds United, was diagnosed last month.

Research suggests footballers are at more risk of dementia through repeatedly heading the ball.

In a statement, the former centre-back’s family said they wanted to highlight the issue, feeling “it was important to let people know, particularly if raising awareness can help others in similar situations”.

It added: “Whilst as a family we’ve found it hard to come to terms with the changes in dad, he has no regrets about his career and has lived life to the full.

“He had unforgettable experiences in his playing days with Scotland, Manchester United and Leeds United, and also took so much from his coaching and TV work in more recent times.” McQueen (above) began his playing career at St Mirren before moving to Leeds United in 1972.

He joined Manchester United six years later, retired in 1985, then managed Airdrie before working as a TV analyst. His 30 Scotland caps brought five goals.

“Dad scored some important goals in his career and memorable headers but used to stay back in training, heading the ball to the goalkeeper for practice over and over,” the McQueen family added.

“He does wonder if this has been a factor in his dementia as his symptoms appeared in his mid-60s.”

World Cup winners Nobby Stiles, Jack Charlton (above), Ray Wilson and Martin Peters had the condition before they died.