Southend United boss Kieron Dyer says the anniversary of his life-saving liver transplant inspired an “emotional” pre-match team talk at the weekend.
The former England midfielder, who played for Ipswich Town and Newcastle United, had the operation in 2023 after being diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis in 2019.
Dyer, 47, said he addressed the Shrimpers’ players and staff before their thumping 6-1 win at Gateshead which saw them go second in the National League.
“I said [to the players] that I don’t want to put extra pressure on you, but I need the win – they executed that perfectly,” Dyer told BBC Essex.
“I always speak to [his organ donor] at night before going to bed, so I said ‘that one’s for you’.”
Primary sclerosing cholangitis is characterised by inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts and caused Dyer’s eyes and skin to turn yellow.
“For me to be alive, someone’s had to have their life taken away,” Dyer added.
“I know some of his life. I know his name, I know he had a wife because his sister wrote a really powerful letter to me.
“I’m always grateful because not many people get second chances at life. I was on my death bed. I probably only had a few weeks myself to live.
“It [the anniversary] is always an emotional day. We do huddles in the changing room before games and I pick different members of staff to lead them… I thought Saturday’s was a good one for me to do.”
Dyer won 33 caps for England and also had spells with West Ham, QPR and Middlesbrough.
He was appointed as Southend boss in June, and has taken the Shrimpers to two points off the top of the National League after nine games.
“It [receiving an organ donation] was the most humbling thing and gives you a completely different perspective on life. You can’t take any day for granted.
“I wouldn’t want anyone to go through that but it does broaden your horizons when you think about life and how you have to cherish every moment.”