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Ex-captain blames surgeon for ruined football career

BBC Sport •
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Former Dundee United captain Iain Jenkins claims rogue surgeon Sam Eljamel ended his playing career after a botched 1999 spine operation. Jenkins says the surgery, performed privately at Fernbrae Clinic, led to rapid physical decline and forced retirement within two years.

Eljamel, formerly head of neurosurgery at Ninewells Hospital, was suspended in 2013 and later resigned. A public inquiry is underway into his actions, which harmed dozens of patients. Though his private work isn't officially part of the inquiry, some cases may be included.

Jenkins, who also played for Everton and Northern Ireland, later became assistant manager at St Mirren before leaving due to ongoing health issues. Now working as a surveyor, he continues to suffer chronic pain and supports Operation Stringent, the police investigation into Eljamel.