The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Former United boss McNamara fights for life
Ex-Scotland star rushed to hospital after ‘bleed on brain’ collapse
Former Dundee United manager and Dunfermline star Jackie McNamara is being treated in hospital for a reported “bleed on the brain” after collapsing near his home.
It is understood Mr McNamara, 46, was out walking when he began feeling unwell and was later rushed to a facility in York.
John Hartson, who played with him during a trophy-laden spell at Celtic, said: “Worried sick for my former teammate and great friend Jackie McNamara who collapsed at home Saturday with a bleed on the brain.
“My thoughts are with his wife Samantha and the children.”
Mr McNamara’s family thanked the public for their response after thousands of fans took to social media to send the former Scotland star well wishes last night.
A post on his personal Twitter account read: “This is Jackie’s daughter. Thank you all for your kind words and support.
“My dad is getting the best care possible, as you all can understand this is difficult for us as a family and request privacy at this time.”
Mr McNamara, who had spells managing Dundee United, Partick Thistle and York City, has been working as a players’ agent, as well as advising Dunfermline Athletic – the club where he began his footballing career – through his sports management firm.
The club did not respond to a request for comment yesterday.
He also recently opened a sports bar in Fuengirola, Spain, with former Celtic team-mate and close friend Simon Donnelly.
The Scotland national team, which capped Mr McNamara 33 times, issued a statement saying: “The thoughts of everyone at the Scottish FA are with former Scotland player Jackie McNamara and his family.”
The defender, who claimed four league titles at Celtic, also played for Wolves, Aberdeen, Falkirk and Partick Thistle, all of which paid tribute to the star.
Mr McNamara served as manager of Dundee United from 2013 to 2015.
The club said: “The thoughts of everyone at Dundee United are with ex-manager Jackie McNamara and his family today.”