From the Pitch to Diagnosis: Ex-Footballer Opens Up About Dementia Struggle

The former forwards for Barnsley, Huddersfield Town, Hull City, and Middlesbrough, Andy Payton, has opened up about his dementia diagnosis.

Earlier this year, when he turned 57, the former sharpshooter received his diagnosis. Well-known throughout Yorkshire, he played for clubs such as Celtic and Burnley during his career.

Nevertheless, he has been informed that his profession is what led to his premature diagnosis.

Speaking candidly to BBC Radio Lancashire Payton remarked, “Initially, I was quite shocked. Dementia at age 57 doesn’t seem typical.”

They mentioned it was due to the impact of heading the ball. I understood that the position I played and the training sessions we had involved me heading the ball around 200 times per session.

Dean Windass' part in Andy Payton pursuing examinations

Payton’s ex-teammate at Hull City, Dean Windass, revealed his diagnosis publicly in January. This announcement led Payton to undergo his own medical check-up.

He stated: "I experienced severe headaches, memory issues; however, considering I'm in my mid-50s, these symptoms seemed somewhat excessive."

The headaches remain somewhat of an issue, but I was aware that something just wasn’t quite right.

When I found out Deano was diagnosed, I decided to get myself checked too. The choice was between hearing ‘everything’s fine’ or learning ‘something’s wrong.’ It’s tough to describe—like you have things at the edge of your mind but can’t quite bring them forth.

Based on what they mentioned, out of the 60 areas in my brain, 27 suffered damage. This leads to a loss of connectivity, so to speak. Currently, I am fine, but the concern arises when thinking about potential issues later on.

I don't believe I would have gotten tested if the Windass news hadn’t come out, as I wasn’t aware that such tests were even an option.

I was acquainted with Dean since we both played for Hull City when we were 16, so I knew him well enough. Getting tested seemed like a sensible idea.

Ban on headings in youth soccer

The practice of heading in youth soccer is being gradually eliminated as part of efforts to decrease the incidence of former players receiving diagnoses related to head injuries.

Payton stated: "If you asked me today whether children should be heading the ball, my answer would be no. It seems they have banned this practice for ages younger than 11, and currently, even during training sessions, they are restricting it. I concur with these measures."

It's not about the present moment; it's about what might evolve from it.

MORE: Hull City icon Dean Windass discusses how the fear of uncertainty has become his newest challenge to overcome