Kenny Sansom: Former England and Arsenal defender diagnosed with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome

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Jack Rosser @JackRosser_7 December 2020

Former England defender Kenny Sansom has been diagnosed with a form of dementia, Crystal Palace have announced.

The ex-Palace and Arsenal man, 62, was hosplitalised in May having reportedly suffered a serious head injury and has now been diagnosed with a type of brain disorder called Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome.

In a statement, Crystal Palace said: "The family of Kenny Sansom wish to update Crystal Palace supporters on Kenny’s health, following reports earlier this year that he was hospitalised.

"Kenny is out of hospital and settled in new accommodation, but has been diagnosed with Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome, a type of brain disorder and form of dementia.  

"He is in the early stages of the illness, which is reversible and treatable. With the support of his family and carers, he is on the first steps of his road to recovery. Those closest to him are encouraged by his progress and the positive attitude he is showing in difficult circumstances.

"The family would like his and their privacy to be respected.

"As always, everyone at Crystal Palace Football Club wishes Kenny well, and we look forward to welcoming him back to Selhurst Park again soon."

Arsenal added: "We’re thinking of you and your family, Kenny.

"Wishing you all the best in your recovery."

The south London-born defender began his career at Crystal Palace before heading to Highbury in 1980.

He wore the captain’s armband as the Gunners won the League Cup in 1987 before leaving the club for Newcastle a year later.

Sansom also played for Queens Park Rangers, Coventry, Everton, Brentford and Watford.

He was part of the England squad that reached the quarter-finals of the 1986 World Cup, making 86 appearances between 1979 and 1988 - making him the Three Lions’ second-most capped full-back after Ashley Cole.

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