FORMER Oxford United manager Brian Horton is urging people to get themselves tested after announcing his diagnosis with prostate cancer.

The 74-year-old took part in an annual health check-up as part of his affiliation with the League Managers Association (LMA), with the results flagging up the disease a month later.

Horton, who spent five years with the U’s before taking over at Manchester City, is now encouraging more men to to know their risk by taking Prostate Cancer UK’s 30-second risk checker.

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He told the Oxford Mail: “The LMA looks after us as managers and coaches, and we regularly go and get tested for things.

“They found something small, so I’ll have the process of radiotherapy in a few weeks’ time.

“I feel good and healthy, but that’s the message we want to get across – to get checked.

“It’s about making people aware you can get tested very easily.

“I feel great and I’ve got no symptoms at all, and I’m taking it all in my stride. That’s what I’ve got to do. I’m staying quite positive about the whole thing.

“If you catch it early, then it’s treatable, so get in there early if you can.”

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Horton was diagnosed in May, and he was persuaded to speak out by former Luton Town striker Mick Harford, who has been battling prostate cancer himself.

“I saw Mick Harford at the Brighton versus Luton game, and Mick asked me if I was going to talk publicly about it,” said Horton.

“I’d been discussing it with people, with my wife and family and it was Mick who made me realise that it was very, very important.

“If it helps other men at risk of prostate cancer seek advice from their GP, then I think it’s worthwhile doing it.” 

Prostate Cancer UK chief executive Laura Kerby said: “Brian’s story is a stark reminder of the dangers of prostate cancer, the most common cancer in men.

“Unfortunately, early prostate cancer usually doesn’t have any symptoms, which is why men need to be aware of their risk and should take our online risk checker to find out more. 

“It’s encouraging to hear his treatment path is underway and we thank him for speaking out about prostate cancer in the football community.

“We are proud at our long-term partnership with the League Managers Association and their members, and that’s been critical in delivering this important message.” 

Reflecting on his time in charge at United, Horton said: “I try and get to all my old clubs, and they all look after me, which is a great privilege.

“Oxford was a massive part of my managerial career and I had five great years there. I lived in Woodstock and loved the place, and the Manor Ground too.

“We brought some good players into the side, like Jim Magilton, Paul Simpson, Chris Allen and Joey Beauchamp, God bless him.

“They were great days and I had a good time there with the people and as a place to live.

“I keep an eye on the results and they’re doing well. For them to get a new ground would be great for everyone. A new stadium could really help them out.”

Visit prostatecanceruk.org/riskcheck to check your risk.