Ray Deakin – who famously led Burnley to victory over Leyton Orient in the 80s to save the club from demotion from the Football League – is recovering after an operation in Leeds General Infirmary.

And the 49-year-old vowed: "I'm staying positive – they're not going to get rid on me that easily!"

Liverpool-born Ray was first admitted to hospital on July 20 after complaining of severe headaches and double vision.

He later underwent a scan, which revealed a tumour in the brain.
Ray was transferred to Leeds to undergo surgery on July 23, but medics were only able to remove part of the tumour, and tests revealed it was cancerous.

He's now back home in Thorpe Willoughby, where he lives with wife Penny and son Adam, 19.

Ray added despite being diagnosed with the most aggressive form of cancer, he's due to start radiotherapy and is determined to fight it.
During his career, the full-back played for a host of clubs, including Everton, Port Vale and Bolton before moving to Burnley.

Ray – known as 'whoooosh' – went on to establish himself as a firm fans' favourite, making 247 appearances and scoring six goals.

He's still a hero among Clarets fans after captaining the side to a 2-1 triumph over Orient in May 1987 – a win that secured their place in the League.

"I loved my time at Burnley," added Ray, who quit football after being released in 1991 and became a salesman.