Former Wales striker Iwan Roberts' call to tackle dementia in footballers

  • Wales

A former professional footballer is calling for more action to tackle dementia.

Striker Iwan Roberts had a long career as a professional footballer - scoring 239 goals, almost half of them with his head. But for each goal, there were thousands of headers in training.

Iwan scored hundreds of goals with his head Credit: PA Images

Like Iwan Roberts, West Brom and England centre forward, Jeff Astle, was also famous for his heading ability.

Jeff Astle died from early onset dementia at the age of 59.

However, he died, from early onset dementia at the age of 59. Jeff's family have campaigned tirelessly to highlight dementia in footballers.

Iwan Roberts is worried that the sport he loved has left its mark on him too, and is urging the FA and the PFA - the Professional Footballers' Association to do more on dementia.

In America, children aren't allowed to head the ball, and a leading expert in Wales is calling for urgent action to safeguard children here too.Dr Donald Williams

51-year-old Iwan Roberts' footballing career spanned two decades. Credit: PA

The Football Association in England said heading is rare in children's games. They say that on average, there's not much more than one header per game.

The FA of Wales told Y Byd Ar Bedwar that they currently don't have any comment to make on the matter.

  • You can follow Iwan Roberts's journey in full tonight on Y Byd ar Bedwar at 9.30pm on S4C.