Joe Thompson dead at 36: Man United lead tributes to ex-academy starlet after he was diagnosed with cancer for the third time last year
Manchester United have led tributes to former footballer Joe Thompson, who has died from cancer at the age of 36.
Thompson, who came through Man United’s academy revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer for the third time last year.
He was found to have stage four lymphona – a type of blood cancer.
He had previously been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013 and recovered before the cancer returned four years later. He went on to recover a second time before calling time on his career in 2019.
Thompson went on to work in the media as a pundit, as well as mentoring and working as a motivational speaker.
‘A man who epitomised our club’s values,’ Man United said.
Former footballer Joe Thompson has died from cancer at the age of 36, it has been announced
‘We are saddened to share that Joe Thompson has passed away.
‘A warm personality who had a deep connection with our club from a young age, our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this difficult time.’
Thompson had come through Man United’s academy but spent most of his playing career at Rochdale, making 203 appearances across three different spells at the club.
He was part of the Rochdale side which was promoted to League One in 2010.
Thompson achieved hero status at the club on the final day of the 2017/18 season, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory which ensured the club avoided relegation to League Two.
Rochdale wrote on social media that the club was ‘devastated to learn of the passing of Dale legend, Joe Thompson.
‘Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time. One of our own.
‘We first knew Joe primarily as a talented footballer, but we would soon grow to adore his loving, infectious personality.
Thompson made over 200 appearances for Rochdale before his retirement in 2019
‘He faced every battle head-on, both on and off the pitch. His journey and indomitable spirit have been an inspiration for everyone who has been touched by his story.
‘Above all of that, Joe was a loving husband to Chantelle and an incredible father to Thailula and Athena Rae.
‘Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.’
Rochdale confirmed their players will wear black armbands during their match against Altrincham on Friday, with a tribute planned ahead for their home match against AFC Fylde on Easter Monday.
