Former Liverpool and England star John Barnes has revealed that he underwent surgery to remove his prostate after being diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The 62-year-old football icon shared details of his health battle during an interview with Times Radio, confirming that he is recovering well following successful treatment.
Barnes said he has been doing “fine” since the procedure and used the opportunity to highlight the need for greater awareness around prostate cancer, particularly among men who may be reluctant to seek medical help.
“Not many people know and it’s a bit of a taboo subject because we support women with breast cancer and it’s not even an issue,” he wrote.
“Whereas with men, the government say, ‘yeah, prostate cancer, we need more awareness, we need people to come forward and in black men it’s more prevalent.’
“Men have to then bite the bullet and swallow their pride and admit if they have problems and say it. So it’s a good thing that that has come out.”
The former winger stressed that fear and stigma continue to prevent many men from speaking openly about health concerns.
“A lot of men don’t want to admit it or want to have it done because it makes them feel less than a man. But you’re not, you’re exactly the same, you’re the same person and you’re around and that’s the main thing.”
Barnes remains one of the most celebrated figures in Liverpool’s history.
During a glittering decade at Anfield between 1987 and 1997, he helped the club win two league titles, two FA Cups and a League Cup while scoring 108 goals in 407 appearances.
His influence extended beyond club football, earning 79 caps for England and scoring 10 goals for the national team.
Widely regarded as one of the finest players of his generation, Barnes played a pivotal role in shaping Liverpool’s success during one of the club’s most memorable eras.
Following Barnes’ announcement, Prostate Cancer UK welcomed his decision to speak publicly about his diagnosis and treatment.
“We’re so grateful to John for talking so openly about his prostate cancer diagnosis and we’re happy to hear he’s had successful treatment,” said Chiara De Biase, the charity’s fundraising and health strategy director.
Barnes’ revelation comes just days after Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish disclosed that he is currently undergoing cancer treatment.
The news has prompted an outpouring of support across the football community for two of the most respected figures in Liverpool’s history.
By sharing his experience, Barnes hopes more men will feel encouraged to seek medical advice early, helping improve awareness and outcomes in the fight against prostate cancer.
Toosin is a dedicated sports writer with a strong background in crafting engaging and insightful content. With experience at Goal, he has developed a sharp editorial sense and a refined storytelling approach that brings depth and perspective to sports journalism. His passion for the game goes beyond the headlines, as he captures both the excitement of the sport and the compelling human narratives behind each event. Toosin’s work resonates with a broad and diverse audience, making global sports stories accessible, relatable, and impactful.
