Chris Kamara Opens Up On Heartbreaking Reason Behind 'Slurred' Speech After Viewers Express Concern For His Health

Chris Kamara has revealed he is suffering from apraxia of speech after fans expressed their concern for his health during this weekend's appearance on Gillette Soccer Saturday.

The former Portsmouth, Swindon and Brentford defender, who is affectionately known as 'Kammy', was covering Saturday's League One clash between Rotherham and Shrewsbury when viewers picked up on his commentary.

Many proceeded to voice their concerns on social media as the events unfolded in Yorkshire. One fan wrote: "What’s up with Chris Kamara? His speech has slowed right down in the last couple of weeks."

Another concerned Twitter user said: "Kammy are you ok mate? Noticing you’re not at your best today. And I don’t mean that in an offensive way. If you’re struggling mate please get some help or talk to someone."

After multiple messages on Twitter, Kamara, 64, responded by giving supporters an update on his health.

"Just wanted to let a few of you know who tweeted me today that I am ok ish," Kamara tweeted. "Alongside my Thyroid problem I have developed Apraxia of Speech & have been working to get my speech back to normal.

"Some days it can be a little slow and some days it’s normal. Hopefully I can beat this!"

Apraxia of speech is a neurological disorder that affects the brain pathways involved in planning the sequence of movements involved in producing speech.

The brain knows what it wants to say, but cannot properly plan and sequence the required speech sound movements.

Kamara's social media update on his health received an incredible response from fans around the world, while several of his work colleagues showed their support.

Jeff Stelling wrote: "You still bring life, energy, fun and understanding to all your reportson Soccer Saturday. We all love you pal. Keep going!"

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher also showed his support, as did Monday Night Football presenter David Jones, who said: "You’re a hero to me and so many others Kammy, sending love."

Last month, Kamara played down reports he was leaving Soccer Saturday at the end of the 2021/22 season.

"Today's story is news to me." he wrote after seeing the claims. "Even though some of you have noticed that I’ve had a few weeks off [from] Sky Sports, I’m back on the 12th March. Looking forward to seeing Jeff and the Soccer Saturday gang again."

All the best for a speedy recovery, Kammy. A true legend of the game.

Featured Image Credit: Sky Sports

Topics: Chris Kamara, Football, Portsmouth, Brentford

Jack Kenmare

Senior Journalist at SPORTbible with a passion for long-form journalism. Almost 10 years’ experience across online and print.

@jackkenmare_