Former Premier League star Kieron Dyer has been discharged from hospital after undergoing a “life-saving” liver transplant. The ex-Newcastle midfielder was diagnosed with a chronic liver condition in 2019, which he understood meant he would need a transplant of the organ.
Dyer retired from an impressive playing career in 2013 and became a pundit, working for various broadcasters. However, six years later he was diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis.
The 44-year-old – who also worked as a youth team coach at former club Ipswich – released a statement revealing that the condition has no cure. However, he says his transplant will give him back his ‘optimistic outlook’ on life.
He was admitted to hospital three months ago and finally received the news that he would receive a new liver just two weeks ago. The former England international was discharged on Thursday morning.
“Ever since that day (of the diagnosis), I knew that I would require a transplant,” Dyer said in an emotional statement. “Three months ago, I was admitted to the Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge. A fortnight ago came the life-changing news that I was to be the recipient of a new liver, and would swiftly undergo a transplant. This morning I was discharged from hospital.
“Simply saying ‘thank you’ to the staff at the hospital feels insufficient. They have been extraordinary. Be it the nurses, porters, doctors or consultants, I have been blown away by the quality of care I received. I could not have been in better hands throughout, and my appreciation goes beyond words. I will never forget them.”
He continued: “I know that the liver I have been given has come from someone of a similar age to myself and that is truly heartbreaking.
“It is the generosity and kindness of others that gives those in my position a chance, and I will ensure I make the most of it. The gratitude I feel for the position I find myself in, has no bounds and I feel blessed to leave hospital feeling healthier than ever.
“I would like to thank my family who have offered extraordinary support during what has been a very tough period, and whilst there will inevitably be bumps in the road ahead, I return home with my optimistic outlook that I worried would never return.”
Dyer started his career at Ipswich before moving to Newcastle, for whom he played 250 times and spent the majority of his career. He earned 33 England caps and also played for West Ham, Queens Park Rangers and Middlesbrough.
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