Arguably an interesting one and probably not something that gets widely talked about, though there are actually a number of footballers who have, or actually currently play with disabilities.
To many spectators and even the naked eye these are likely subtle and may come as a surprise, while also being able to explain some of the capabilities on the field.
Keep reading to find out who we have found and the influence they have had on the game we all love.
Paul Gascoigne
Arguably one of England’s greats of the last 30 years, it is no secret that “Gazza” has had his issues with drugs and alcoholism, however while he was playing he also was diagnosed with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder) and Bipolar Disorder.
Whether or not this made him an even better footballer is open for debate, though there was no doubting his brilliance.
Dele Alli
Another English player, who failed to hit the heights he was expected to, Alli has spoken at length about his struggles to overcome dyslexia over the years. It is arguably what made him such a talented footballer. Some of the most successful people in the world (entrepreneurs, athletes, musicians, actors) were all diagnosed with dyslexia and there does seem to be a scientifically-linked pattern.
Garrincha
Those old enough to remember the Brazilian star of the 1960s (at his peak) will know there was something that stood out remarkably about his game. He was able to execute what became known as the ‘banana shot’.
When he struck the ball in a certain way, the trajectory of the shot would arc like a banana; this proved to be a valuable weapon for the teams he played for. This shot was possible, because he was born with a deformed spine, a right leg that bent inward, and a left leg that was six centimetres shorter and curved outward.
Jonathan Walters
The former Stoke City, Burnley and Republic of Ireland striker (unbeknown to many) had to manage Type 1 diabetes throughout his career with a very strict regime. He had to always watch what he ate and club dieticians and chefs needed to make sure this meals were considerably regulated.
Lionel Messi
Perhaps the most famous case in the modern era, it is no secret among hardcore football fans that Messi was born with a growth hormone deficiency that was diagnosed when he was 10 years of age.
However, he had a natural talent for football and he didn’t let his condition put him off. Consequently, following his move to Barcelona, the club agreed to pay costly treatment that resulted in the development of muscle mass and a growth spurt. Probably money well spent, don’t you think?!
Stefan Markolf
Possibly one of the most standout cases, Markolf was the first professional deaf footballer to play in the German Bundesliga, for Mainz 05, having been that way from birth. He famously communicated with his teammates using hand gestures and didn’t let this handicap effect his game.
