Lenny Johnrose dead aged 52: Ex-Burnley ace dies five years after being diagnosed with motor neuron disease

LENNY JOHNROSE has tragically passed away at the age of 52 after a battle with motor neuron disease.

The former defensive midfielder enjoyed a 16-year football career after coming through the ranks at Blackburn.

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He had his longest stint with Bury between 1993 and 1999 and had an instrumental year with Swansea – and is still adored by Swans fans.

His goal against Hull on the final day of the 2002/03 season was enough to ensure the club’s safety in the Football League and provided the springboard for promotion to the Premier League.

After his playing career ended in 2004, Johnrose switched to teaching.

He was diagnosed with the disease in 2017 and the following year saw a charity match between Swansea and Burnley legends, which ended 10-7.

Father of three, Johnrose was married to wife Nadine and revealed his health had deteriorated in February this year.

He told Wales Online: “My voice clings to my life and some of my words are actually decipherable.

“Oh, and I have to hold my head up to speak, which might explain why Nadine keeps taking my neck brace off.

“The pool of saliva in my mouth is sort of under control, although it’s still enough to make a cup of tea!

“The legs are still pretty strong and I’ve rediscovered slight movements in two fingers… And that seems to be it. So I’m still going strong.”

Tributes poured out on social media following his sad death.

The Len Johnrose Trust tweeted: “We are heartbroken to report that our leader, Len Johnrose, passed away this morning. Len was an incredibly proud husband and father. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time.”

Burnley wrote: “Our thoughts are with Lens’ family and friends at this very sad time. You will always be a Claret Len.”

Hartlepool, another of his former clubs, added: “We encourage fans to join us for a minute of applause in the 52nd minute of tomorrow’s game against Tranmere Rovers to pay tribute to Len Johnrose. A great man on and off the pitch.”

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