Born in Swansea, John was known for giving 100% on the pitch throughout his career, a relentless attitude that he carried with him when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2009, which later spread to his brain. After undergoing extensive chemotherapy, John received the life-changing news in spring 2010 that all traces of cancer had been eliminated. Today, he shares his powerful journey of overcoming adversity through motivational talks, blending personal anecdotes of his recovery with captivating stories from his football career.
As a professional footballer, John was a formidable striker who played for numerous top clubs including Luton, Arsenal, West Ham, Wimbledon, Coventry, Celtic, and West Bromwich Albion. He also earned 51 caps for the Welsh national team.
Beyond his football career, John has become a well-respected TV pundit, known for his insightful tactical analysis and innovative ideas on the game. He joined Setanta Sports in the 2008-09 season to provide expert commentary on the Scottish Premier League and regularly appears as a studio guest on S4C’s Sgorio, where his Welsh-language contributions offer a unique perspective.
John’s story is a testament to resilience and determination, and his talks continue to inspire audiences across various platforms.