Former Leicester City and Watford manager Nigel Pearson has described the process of “learning to walk again” as an “incredible challenge” after revealing he was dealing with a “neurological situation” last year.
The 61-year-old shared that he was awaiting further tests to diagnose the health issue in October 2023, just before his dismissal as Bristol City manager.
Pearson posted an update on his condition on social media as he thanked “all the kind people who have continued to send their support during the last 13 months”.
He added: “Learning to walk again has been an incredible challenge.
“My appreciation of support from family, friends, colleagues, supporters, and medical professionals has been profound.
“I had the wonderful opportunity of traveling to the US with my dad to meet family for the first time in Wisconsin.
“Recently, I’ve been able to cycle in the Peak District,and swing golf clubs at the driving range, although my fofollow-througheeds some work (I’ve not fallen over yet!).
“Although my prognosis is still uncertain, believe me, that positivity and laughter can prove the best medicine as I experienced with old friends from school on a canal narrow boat on my birthday. There is always light somewhere ahead – new possibilities, new challenges.”
Pearson’s managerial career began at Carlisle United, where he was in charge during the club’s dramatic escape from relegation on the final day of the 1998-99 season, thanks to an injury-time winner from goalkeeper Jimmy Glass.
He later managed Leicester City, and in his second spell with the club, led them to promotion to the Premier League in 2014. Despite the Foxes being bottom of the Premier League at Christmas the following season, Pearson steered them to safety with an impressive run of seven wins and one draw in their final nine matches.