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Former Sunderland defender George Burley has shared that he is “feeling well” after receiving treatment following a recent cancer diagnosis.
The 68-year-old, who played for Sunderland between 1985 and 1988 and made 54 league appearances, is best known for his 12-year career as a player with Ipswich Town and his eight years coaching at Portman Road. After retiring from playing, he also managed Derby County, the Scottish national team, Hearts, Southampton, Crystal Palace, and other clubs.
In September, Burley revealed that he had been unwell earlier in the year and was undergoing treatment. Reflecting on the diagnosis, he said, “After feeling unwell, I recently received a diagnosis and am taking positive steps to fight the disease. It’s been a challenging time, but I’m feeling much better now.
“I’ve even been able to attend matches at Portman Road, and I’m enjoying watching the team back in the Premier League. My family and I are grateful to Ipswich for their support, and we ask for privacy at this time.”
In a recent interview with BBC Radio Suffolk, Burley offered an optimistic update on his health, stating, “It’s one step at a time, but for now, I’m feeling well.
“It was a shock, but my family has been incredibly supportive, keeping my spirits up. It’s a frightening experience, but that’s life, and others are facing greater challenges. I’ve always stayed positive—I was once told in 1981 that I’d never play football again due to an injury, yet I made it to the World Cup finals in ‘82.”