Johan Cruyff '2-0 up at half-time' against cancer

Johan Cruyff believes he is "2-0 up at half-time" and will eventually win his battle with lung cancer.

Johan Cruyff '2-0 up at half-time' against cancer

Johan Cruyff believes he is "2-0 up at half-time" and will eventually win his battle with lung cancer.

The former Ajax, Barcelona and Holland star said in a statement on his official website: "After several medical treatments I can say that the results have been very positive, thanks to the excellent work of the doctors, the affection of the people and my positive mentality.

"Right now, I have the feeling that I am 2-0 up in the first half of a match that has not finished yet. But I am sure that I will end up winning."

Cruyff, who was a heavy smoker until undergoing heart surgery in 1991, made his illness public in October last year.

The 68-year-old, who won the Ballon d'Or three times, is regarded as one of the game's greatest ever players.

He led Ajax to three consecutive European Cups from 1971 to 1973 and was the star figure as Holland reached the World Cup final in 1974.

By then he had joined Barcelona for a world record fee and became a huge favourite at the Nou Camp, eventually coaching the Catalan club to a first European Cup triumph in 1992 and four successive Primera Division titles.

more courts articles

Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson arrives at court to face sex charges Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson arrives at court to face sex charges
Case against Jeffrey Donaldson to be heard in court Case against Jeffrey Donaldson to be heard in court
Defendant in Cobh murder case further remanded in custody Defendant in Cobh murder case further remanded in custody

More in this section

Manchester United v AZ Alkmaar - UEFA Europa League - Group L - Old Trafford Arne Slot: the overachiever and ‘good guy’ who can spark a revolution
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Arsenal - Premier League - Molineux Stadium Mikel Arteta says Arsenal need to ‘put rivalry aside’ against Tottenham
European Leagues General Assembly - London Premier League chief says Manchester City case will be resolved ‘in near future’
Sport Push Notifications

By clicking on 'Sign Up' you will be the first to know about our latest and best sporting content on this browser.

Sign Up
Sport
Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers

Sign up
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited