Burley 'feeling well' and backing Ipswich for top-flight safety

Ipswich Town legend George Burley says he is "feeling well" after his initial treatment for cancer.

The former Scotland manager issued a statement through his former club in September to share the news of his diagnosis of an undisclosed form of the disease.

In an interview with BBC Radio Suffolk, he said he had had chemotherapy and was awaiting details of the next stage of treatment, adding: "It's one step at a time, but at the moment I’m feeling well."

Burley said although it had been a "difficult time", he was trying to keep lively and fit as well as focussing on eating healthily.

He had also been able to return to playing golf and had attended every Ipswich home game this season.

The 68-year-old played for Ipswich from 1973 to 1985, making more than 500 appearances, before managing the side between 1994 and 2002 and was in charge the last time they were in the top flight.

Burley said he had received support locally and from figures in the game, including text messages from some current Ipswich players and boss Kieran McKenna.

He said he had also been heartened by the Tractor Boys' form, especially their 2-1 win at Tottenham at the weekend.

"Their performances have been excellent," Burley said.

"It's about making good performances and I haven't been panicking because the team have been playing really well and there's improvement every week.

"I've got every confidence that we get to stay in the Premier League this season."

Listen to the full interview from 38'20 on BBC Sounds