Gordon Cowans - still going

[Legion]

"Dear friends and supporters.

In an attempt to stop speculation and mis information about my health, I have decided to release the following statement. After a series of recent tests, I have been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's Disease. Medication has been prescribed and with some life changes, which I intend to commit to fully, the prognosis is a good one. I will be out and about for many years yet and see this as just another of life's journeys. My match day duties with Aston Villa will remain an important part of my future and I will continue to perform these, in support of my beloved club, for as long as my health allows. With the love and support of family and close friends guaranteed, I am very optimistic and positive about the future.

With Love.

Gordon ( Sid ) Cowans x"

[aldridgeboy]

Awful for him, such a lovely man. Hopefully the medication and changes can delay any serious onset.
One of my favourite ever players.

[chrisw1]

Bad news, but he seems to have a positive attitude, which will be vital in his battle.

One of the true legends of our club.  Best wished go to him and his family.

[darren woolley]

I'm shocked I hope he's going to be OK I don't really know much about the Illness but I hope the medication will delay anything more serious I have had the pleasure of meeting Sid many times and he's a perfect gentleman.

[Clampy]

Awful news, so sad to hear.

[sid1964]

My father has the same illness - I hope that "Sid" is able to continue with his normal daily life for many years to come.

Without doubt my favorite Villa Player - World Class in my opinion.

[LeeB]

Not one of in my case, my absolute favourite footballer. It wasn't enough to be good at football, I wanted to do it with the style of Sid at the same time, he made a sliding tackle look balletic.

God bless him x

[Abbeyfealeavfc]

Best wishes to a true legend and gentleman. Thinking of you and your family.

[SoccerHQ]

Thought the news would be even worse when I saw this.

Much love to Sid. One of the legends of the club without a doubt. My uncle had a more severe form of Alzheimers and it's sad to see fully with it people degenerate over time.

[Brend'Watkins]

I feel for him and his family.  A truly great Villa player.  Any Villa team since would have been vastly improved with him in the team he was that good.  Hopefully it won't be too deliberating for him.

[dave shelley]

Undoubtedly one of the best players it has been my privilege to witness playing for the Villa.  The closest I've seen to being the complete all-round footballer.  Keep fighting Sid.

[garyshawsknee]

Very sad news, I hope he's able to keep living a happy and normal life for a long time. My uncle has had something similar for a while and the stress and emotional pain it has placed on my Aunt is really tiring for her. I hope Sids family have a lot of support.

[Villan For Life]

All the very best to you Sid as you fight this cruel illness.

[Billy Walker]

I don't have many heroes but this man is one of them.  Right behind you Sid.

[colin69]

The word legend is used far too often but in Sid’s case he is. Hope he can carry on with as normal a life as possible for many years to come. A class act on and off the pitch.