Former Premier League manager reveals Parkinson’s disease diagnosis | OneFootball

Former Watford and England U21 manager Aidy Boothroyd has revealed he has been battling Parkinson’s disease for the past three years.

The 54-year-old, who led Watford to the Premier League back in 2006, was informed of his diagnosis following a routine health check.

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder affecting the brain and nervous system.

“The news came as a massive shock to me,” Boothroyd said in a statement released by the League Managers Association.

“It has taken me time to feel ready to share my diagnosis, and I have found it difficult not being completely open with people.

“Personally, my passion and love for coaching is as strong as ever, I am focusing on keeping physically fit, which is key to slowing down the progression of Parkinson’s.

“I am ready to start the next chapter in my life.”

LMA chief executive Richard Bevan added: “Aidy has displayed incredible positivity, resolve and determination since his Parkinson’s diagnosis three years ago.

“We care deeply for all our members, and Aidy’s attitude since his diagnosis has been an inspiration to our entire team as we continue to support him and his family throughout this unexpected and challenging time.”

Alongside his three-year spell at Watford, where he also guided them to an FA Cup semi-final appearance, Boothroyd has enjoyed managerial stints Colchester United, Coventry City, Northampton Town and from 2014-2021 was in charge of various England youth teams.

Parkinson’s disease affects nearly 10 million people worldwide, with a reported 153,000 cases in the UK alone.

Parkinson’s UK CEO Caroline Rassell said: “Everyone at Parkinson’s UK, sends Aidy Boothroyd our best wishes and thanks him for raising awareness of Parkinson’s by publicly sharing his diagnosis.

“With more than 40 symptoms, Parkinson’s is unpredictable and undoubtedly introduces new challenges, but with the right support and staying active for 2.5 hours a week people can take control of their lives.

“Aidy is now part of a community of 153,000 people in the UK who live with Parkinson’s along with the millions of loved ones who support them. We are here to support them all.

“A public Parkinson’s diagnosis often encourages people to think about their own health and we would encourage anyone concerned about symptoms to speak to their GP, visit parkinsons.org.uk or call the Parkinson’s UK confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303.”