Southend United boss Kieron Dyer says the anniversary of his life-saving liver transplant inspired an emotional pre-match team talk at the weekend. The former England midfielder had the operation in 2023 after being diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis in 2019.

Dyer, 47, addressed the Shrimpers' players and staff before their 6-1 win at Gateshead which saw them go second in the National League. "I said [to the players] that I don't want to put extra pressure on you, but I need the win - they executed that perfectly," Dyer told BBC Essex. "I always speak to [his organ donor] at night before going to bed, so I said 'that one's for you'."

Primary sclerosing cholangitis is characterised by inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts and caused Dyer's eyes and skin to turn yellow. "For me to be alive, someone's had to have their life taken away," Dyer added. The 47-year-old won 33 caps for England and was appointed as Southend boss in June, taking the Shrimpers to three points off the top of the National League after nine games.