Kieron Dyer: Former England midfielder has 'life-changing' liver transplant

Image source, Rex Features

Image caption, Kieron Dyer took up a coaching position with hometown side Ipswich Town after his retirement

Former England midfielder Kieron Dyer has left hospital after having a successful liver transplant.

The 44-year-old Chesterfield coach was diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis, a chronic liver condition with no cure, in 2019.

that he was discharged from hospital on Thursday.

"The gratitude I feel for the position I find myself in has no bounds and I feel blessed to leave hospital feeling healthier than ever," Dyer said.

"Strangely, football has been even more important to me during this time.

"I have watched more games from my hospital bed in the last three months than in any other period of my life. I want to thank my hometown club Ipswich Town who have been in regular contact with me, and also Chesterfield.

"A particular thank you to the manager Paul Cook, who has given me the ability to contribute, even from hospital, where I've watched every fixture as the lads have made their way to the top of the National League table.

"In due course I look forward to returning to coaching and media work, but I respectfully ask for privacy for myself and my family at this time as I strive to make what I hope will be a full recovery."

Dyer won 33 caps for England and also had spells with Newcastle, West Ham, QPR and Middlesbrough.