John Toshack made an emotional return to Swansea City on Saturday in a rare public appearance at his former club. The legendary player-manager was introduced to the Jack Army ahead of the Championship clash with Norwich City at the Swansea.com Stadium, along with other members of the squad he helped guide to the top flight in 1981.
He received a wonderful reception from fans, many of whom chanted "You Jack *******" as he saluted the home support. Earlier in the day, Toshack, now 77, signed autographs and spoke to supporters as he arrived at the stadium.
Health battles and recent claims
The former Wales boss has been battling health issues over the last few years. The 77-year-old was rushed into intensive care in 2022 as he battled pneumonia from complications brought on by Covid, while his son Cameron claimed earlier this year that the former Liverpool superstar had been diagnosed with dementia. Both John and his wife later denied those claims.
"Demented? Not yet," Toshack told the Spanish newspaper El Mundo. "I've forgotten all the goals I've missed, but I remember perfectly the ones I've scored."
Idolised on the Kop and at the Vetch
As a player, Toshack scored 13 goals in 40 games for Wales, and became an idolised figure on the red half of Merseyside after signing for Liverpool from Cardiff City in 1970. He would go on to win nine trophies, including three First Division titles and a European Cup.
Later, he moved into coaching, and twice served as Wales boss. He also took charge of dozens of clubs around the world, including Real Madrid and Real Sociedad. However, his first managerial post is what many in SA1 will remember most. Toshack famously led Swansea from Division Four to the First Division in an astonishing rise.
His most recent job was as manager of Persian Gulf Pro League side Tractor, which he left in September 2018 after just three months in charge.
