Arsenal Legend Bob Wilson Diagnosed With Prostate Cancer

Former goalkeeper and veteran broadcaster Bob Wilson is to undergo treatment for prostate cancer.

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The 72-year-old, who played for Arsenal in the 1960s and 70s and was capped by Scotland, has cancelled forthcoming work and charity commitments in the near future, including those for the Willow Foundation that he founded with his wife Megs.

The pundit, who retired from playing in 1974 but took up a coaching role with Arsenal for several years, was at Wembley for Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final between the Gunners and Wigan Athletic. He said he is planning to return to public life as soon as possible.

Wilson, the former BBC and ITV television presenter, said:

“I am very confident that the treatment I am receiving will prove successful and kindly ask that my privacy is respected at this time.”

His son, BBC Radio 4 presenter John Wilson, said:

“Knowing how strong my dad is, I have every faith he will be back to match fitness very soon indeed.”

 

A Prostate Cancer UK spokesman said:

“We wish Bob Wilson our best wishes in his fight against prostate cancer. A key figure in the football world, he has already been affected by the tragic consequences of cancer, and his tireless work for the Willow Foundation, set up in the memory of his late daughter, continues to this day.

“The football family stands behind Bob, and we offer him and his family our support and best wishes at this important time.”

Wilson is expected to undergo treatment for prostate cancer shortly.