Dean Windass played for Bradford, Hull and Middlesbrough in the Premier League (Image: Getty Images)
Former Premier League forward Dean Windass has been diagnosed with dementia at the age of 55.
The devastating news was revealed by former defender David May on Breakfast. “I only spoke to Dean Windass yesterday, ex-professional footballer,” May shared in a live interview.
“I asked Deano how he is. He’s been diagnosed with Stage 2 dementia. He’s the same age as me and he’s worried sick of how it’s going to be in the future for him.”
Taking to X, May confirmed he had permission from Windass to share the news, stating: “FYI I spoke to @DWindass10 last night and asked his permission. He was 100 per cent behind me mentioning that he had been diagnosed with stage 2 dementia. Deano has just done an article for a national newspaper which will be published soon.. Share the love.”
The Hull City legend, whose iconic goal secured promotion for the club in 2008, retweeted May’s tweet about his diagnosis, as well as another message of support on social media that read: “I’m so sorry to hear that Deano. My mum had Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. Keep doing what you’re doing mate, stay active body and mind my friend and of course you’ve got the Yorkshire grit, fighting spirit and great support.”
Windass himself also shared a video from his car as he sang along to Glen Campbell’s “Rhinestone Cowboy,” captioning the moment with a positive message: “Just got to keep smiling and trying to help people.”
May voiced his concerns on Breakfast about the alarming rise in dementia cases among retired footballers, with new research connecting the cases to heading balls.
He said: “Over my career, I probably headed the football about 20,000 times in total. It’s only coming to light now. I’d like to know where I’ll be in ten years’ time, will I have the care from the governing bodies, PFA, for funding that these families are not currently getting?
“It’s worrying. I’m worried, of course I am. I’ve got a family to look after and I don’t want my children looking after me day in day out.
“Care does cost a lot of money. Is there enough to care for future generations? One in three [footballers have the] possibility of getting dementia. The message needs to get out there.”