A LONG-SERVING and devoted member of Slough Town Football Club’s backroom staff is battling a serious illness, it has been revealed.

Just a week after the club’s goalkeeper Mark Scott broke a vertebrae at the base of his neck – putting his playing career under threat – Slough have announced that their physio Kevin McGoldrick, 60, is battling a ‘serious medical condition’.

‘Super Kev’ has been the first team physiotherapist since 1985 and won the prize for lifetime achievement at the recent Get Berkshire Active Awards. He revealed himself this week that his health had been deteriorating since Christmas and he had missed Saturday’s game with Hitchin to have an MRI scan in hospital.

The club have announced a pre-season testimonial match in his honour. He was diagnosed with the illness on February 16.

In a statement, Slough Town FC said: “The game will be a small token of recognition for the unparalleled service and dedication which Kevin has given to the football club and wider community for over three decades.”

Mr McGoldrick, of Northolt, was typically humble about his testimonial. He said: “I would rather it was not made about me.

“Any review about myself should focus on the club and its merits in the community.”

He added: “It is my hope the game will be a celebration of our football club.

“Since I became club therapist I can honestly say I have loved every minute, and whilst I have made sacrifices through good and bad times, I would not change a thing.”

Despite the fact that he will be receiving ‘aggressive treatment’ to fight the illness, ‘Super Kev’ has no plans to hang up his boots.

Mr McGoldrick said: “I will continue in my role whilst I am physically able to, and I will continue to maintain my high standards and give it everything. With God’s will and the support of family, friends and the football club, I can do this.”

He will be back on the touchline tomorrow as Slough host bottom side Cinderford Town. He also hopes goalkeeper Mark Scott will be able to attend after being discharged from hospital.

The testimonial will be played during the summer as part of pre-season preparations for the 2017/ 2018 campaign.