Reds’ Matteo in tumour op
FANS and ex-teammates have rallied round former footballer Dominic Matteo as he recovers from a brain tumour operation.
The 45-year-old is being treated in hospital in Leeds after falling seriously ill earlier this week.
The former Liverpool, Scotland, and Leeds United defender is now coming out of intensive care following the surgery.
Liverpool FC said in a statement: “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Dom, his family and friends.
“We wish Dom a full and speedy recovery and will offer any support we can to his wife and family.
“Dom’s family would like to place on record their gratitude to all staff at Leeds General Infirmary and express their thanks for all of the messages of support they have received.”
Fans and former players, including ex-leeds star Rio Ferdinand, sent their best wishes on social media after the news broke.
Rio said: “Sending my best wishes to my former teammate... Thinking of you & the family!”
Dominic was born in Dumfries and his family moved to Southport when he was a child. He was spotted playing for local team Birkdale United by Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish and worked his way through the club’s youth ranks before making his debut in 1993.
After 127 appearances for the Reds, he joined Leeds United in 2000 and captained the Elland Road side which made it to the semifinals of the Champions League.
He also had spells with Blackburn Rovers and Stoke City and won six caps for Scotland.
Dominic said last month: “I didn’t want to leave Liverpool, that’s the truth. I had five years left on my contract. Me and [then Anfield boss Gerard] Houllier didn’t get on.
“It’s very hard to compare with Liverpool. I’d come through the ranks, so you’re brought up a certain way – the Liverpool way.
“I’ve never really changed from that. Wherever I went, that was always going to be in me.”
Since retiring, Dominic has become a football pundit and has been a regular commentator at Premier League matches.