FORMER Blackburn Rovers midfielder Gordon Cowans has been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s Disease.

The 61-year-old was brought to Ewood Park by Kenny Dalglish and played a key role in helping Rovers secure promotion to the then newly-formed Premiership after beating Leicester City 1-0 in the play-off final at Wembley Stadium.

Cowans, who played 50 times for Rovers, scoring twice in a two-year spell in East Lancashire, said: “In an attempt to stop speculation and mis-information about my health, I have decided to release the following statement.

“After a series of recent tests, I have been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s Disease.

“Medication has been prescribed with some life changes, which I intend to commit to fully, the prognosis is a good one.

“I will be out and about for many years yet and see this as just another of life’s journeys.

“My match-day duties with Aston Villa will remain an important part of my future and I will continue to perform these, in support of my beloved club, for as long as my health allows. With the love and support of family and close friends guaranteed, I am very optimistic and positive about the future.”

Cowans, capped 10 times by England, is best known for helping Aston Villa win the league title in 1980/81 and then, memorably, the European Cup the following season where they defeated Bayern Munich 1-0.

He also played in Italy for Bari, had spells at Derby County and Wolverhampton Wanderers before ending his career at Burnley, playing six times for the Turf Moor club in 1997.