Ex-Man Utd starlet Joe Thompson dies aged 36 after being diagnosed with cancer three times – as club shares tribute
FORMER Manchester United starlet Joe Thompson has died at the age of 36.
The Bath-born midfielder had been diagnosed with cancer for the third time in April last year, following his retirement from the game in 2019.
He was found to have stage four lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, which had spread to his lungs.
Thompson had twice recovered from the disease during his playing career, which he began and ended playing with Rochdale.
He had come through Manchester United’s academy from the age of nine before going on to join Dale, where he spent the vast majority of his 13-year career.
The Red Devils paid an emotional tribute to their former academy star, saying: “A man who epitomised our club’s values – 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.”
The star’s death had been confirmed by his beloved team Rochdale, which said he passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Thursday.
In an touching tribute, the club also shared their “devastation” upon hearing the news.
They wrote: “Joe, who had been bravely battling cancer for a third time, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, with his family by his side.
“Known by those close to Rochdale as ‘Joey T’, he made over 200 appearances for his local team, representing the badge with pride.
“We first knew Joe primarily as a talented footballer, but we would soon grow to adore his loving, infectious personality.”
The club, which Thompson joined first in 2005, added: “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.”
Thompson was born in bath on March 5, 1989, before moving to Rochdale at a young age.
At just nine-years-old, he joined the Manchester United academy, remaining there until he was 16.
Then, in the summer of 2005, he joined Rochdale on a youth training scheme deal, making his debut for the first team against Carlisle United the following May.
He went on to become a regular for the team, playing an integral part in the Dale’s promotion to League One in 2010.
In 2012, his first spell at the club came to an end, with 157 appearances made and 17 goals scored.
Despite moving to Tranmere Rovers, he made a return to the club for a loan spell that season, totting up seven appearances.
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