Ex-Scotland Striker Alan Brazil ‘Extremely Fortunate’ to Survive Liver Transplant

Former Scotland international Alan Brazil has described himself as "very, very lucky to be here" following a recent liver transplant. The 66-year-old, who has transitioned into a career as a sports broadcaster, disclosed that his heart ceased beating temporarily during the operation.

Speaking to Talksport, Brazil detailed the rapid sequence of events that led to the surgery. He explained that after enduring ongoing medical trials and consulting numerous specialists, doctors determined that a transplant was necessary.

"I finished [work] at quarter to 10 and at 10 I had to phone Addenbrooke's Hospital. They said 'get in right now'," Brazil recounted. "At two thirty that afternoon I was on the slab and they opened me up. I was under for something like eight hours."

He revealed the critical moment during the procedure: "They transplanted my liver. My heart did stop for a bit and it came back on its own."

Brazil, who enjoyed playing stints with clubs including Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Ipswich Town, expressed profound gratitude to the medical team. "I copped it, but thank God, luckily, the guys at Addenbrooke's Hospital have saved my life," he said.

While he remains hopeful about resuming his broadcasting duties in the near future, Brazil acknowledged that his recovery is still in progress. "I am on the mend. Still not there, but I am getting there."

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-04 10:42:07 UTC