Connor Goldson set for second heart surgery as ex-Ibrox stars rally
Former Rangers defender Connor Goldson is set for a second open-heart procedure, which he called "Round Two" in an emotional Instagram video. The 33-year-old, now at Apollon Limassol, revealed surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, nine years after life-saving aortic aneurysm repair at Brighton. Ex-Ibrox stars including Jack Butland and Calvin Bassey have sent public support.
Key Takeaways
- Connor Goldson confirmed a second heart operation in an Instagram video, describing it as "Round Two".
- Surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, nine years after his March 2017 aortic aneurysm repair at Brighton.
- Ex-Rangers teammates Jack Butland, Calvin Bassey, Antonio Colak and Fashion Jr. posted supportive messages.
- Cardiologists told Goldson his football career can continue if the procedure goes well.
- Goldson recently left Aris Limassol and signed for city rivals Apollon Limassol.
Why is Connor Goldson having a second heart procedure?
Goldson first underwent life-saving open-heart surgery in March 2017 to repair an aortic aneurysm detected during routine cardiac screening while he was at Brighton. He returned to training within eight weeks and joined Rangers in 2018, going on to win major trophies and make more than 300 appearances.
In his latest Instagram post, the centre-back said two routine heart scans nine years apart had likely saved his life again. He described preparing for another operation just ten days after planning for pre-season, adding that his children had seen him cry for the first time.
What did Goldson say in his emotional Instagram message?
Goldson told followers he would have his second open-heart surgery on Tuesday. He admitted feeling anger and fear, but said the procedure was giving him more time rather than taking anything away.
He wrote that he was not looking for sympathy, but hoped sharing his journey might help others facing similar challenges feel less alone. He also said he hoped his children would one day understand that life is about how you respond to setbacks.
Who from Rangers has publicly backed Connor Goldson?
A host of former Ibrox teammates left supportive comments beneath Goldson's post. Recently departed goalkeeper Jack Butland wrote: "Just another challenge to overcome. All with you mate."
Calvin Bassey posted "my brother" with a heart emoji. Ex-Rangers striker Antonio Colak said: "Stay strong, my big brate! We are all with you," while Fashion Jr. thanked him for his friendship and said he believed Goldson would come through stronger.
Can Connor Goldson continue his football career?
Goldson said he was initially told his playing career might be over, but after speaking to cardiologists and surgeons he was told football was not finished. He vowed to face the operation, fight through recovery, and return stronger.
He recently departed Aris Limassol after two seasons and has signed for Apollon Limassol ahead of the new campaign. For more developing sports and health stories, see our Fintech & Crypto Alerts coverage. Full details are in The Scotsman report.