Former Rangers defender Connor Goldson has delivered a remarkable and positive health update following a gruelling 13-hour open-heart operation.
The 33-year-old centre-back underwent surgery last week – his second open-heart procedure following his initial operation in 2017 – after routine medical screenings identified an issue with his aorta.
Taking to Instagram, the Ibrox hero confirmed that the operation was an absolute success and that he has already been discharged home after making remarkable progress in hospital.
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Inside Goldson’s 13-hour operation and home recovery
Goldson revealed that the procedure proved more physically demanding than his 2017 operations, requiring time in both intensive care and a high dependency unit before being transferred to a general ward.
Despite the gruelling nature of the 13-hour surgery, the defender was remarkably able to walk down the hospital corridor accompanied by a physiotherapist after just one night in ICU.
Medical staff allowed him to return home after five days to continue his recovery surrounded by family.
Goldson paid a moving tribute to his wife, Kayleigh, describing her as a “superhero” for staying by his side throughout the most challenging days of the process.
Kayleigh Goldson: “Hardest and proudest week of my life”
While Goldson expressed deep gratitude for his wife’s unwavering support, Kayleigh responded with a powerful message of her own that resonated across the Scottish football community.
In an emotional response under his update, she wrote:
“Seeing you fight through this again has been the hardest and proudest week of my life. Every day you continue to amaze me with your strength and resilience, even after all these years. I’ll be with you every step of the way. I love you more than words could ever say.”
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Rangers icons and teammates rally round
The update triggered a wave of warm messages from across the Rangers family, with former teammates and club icons flooding his social media with well-wishes.
Jermain Defoe wished him a speedy recovery, while Ally McCoist shared a saluting face emoji in a nod to Goldson’s courage and determination.
Former defensive partner Calvin Bassey and club icon Steven Davis extended their support too, reaffirming the tight-knit bond shared by members of Rangers’ 55-winning and UEFA Europa League final squads.
Jack Butland and Ianis Hagi offered strength, while Danilo Pereira represented the current Ibrox squad.
With the operation completed successfully and his recovery underway at home, the defender promised fans another update in a week or two as he takes his first steps toward full health.
