Football must create a care fund to support hundreds of ex-pros with dementia and brain injuries, the players’ union has warned.
The Professional Footballers’ Association launched a consultation yesterday urging the families of former players diagnosed with dementia or who have symptoms to come forward. The move will increase pressure on the FA and the Premier League to give urgently needed financial support to former footballers and their families.
It comes after Blackburn Rovers fans held a fundraiser for Tony Parkes – assistant manager when they won the Premiership in 1994/95 – as his family are struggling to pay rising care fees. PFA chief executive Maheta Molango said: “Former footballers and their families need help right now. These conversations need to result in tangible support and, crucially, significant funding.
