Footie star’s family backs header study
THE family of a footballer who claim he died because of all his headers and knocks on the pitch want more research on head injuries in the sport.
Former Gillingham player Rod Taylor passed away in April, aged 74.
He suffered dementia with Lewy bodies and chronic traumatic encephalopathy – which is only be caused by head trauma.
He was the second footballer diagnosed with CTE, after late West Brom and England legend Jeff Astle.
Rod’s family is now backing the Jeff Astle Foundation’s work.
Wife Penny said: “Back then, they were heading medicine balls.
“They were not aware of the dangers. It’s important we help old players.”