‘I don’t want to shy away from this’: football manager Chris Hughton speaks out about his prostate cancer diagnosis

Spurs legend and ex-Premier League boss Chris Hughton has shared his personal prostate cancer story – and pledged to help raise lifesaving awareness of the disease. 

How early diagnosis can save lives

After a decorated playing career – spending several years with Spurs, where he won the FA Cup twice, and lifted the UEFA Cup, and representing the Republic of Ireland internationally – Chris transitioned to a career as a football manager, leading clubs such as Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion before a recent spell in charge of the Ghanaian national team. 

It was during his time as Brighton manager at that Chris became aware of his prostate cancer risk.

Nine years ago, a routine blood test during a health check organised by the League Managers Association first flagged Chris’ raised PSA levels.

From that point on, he continued to have regular tests, which allowed doctors to quickly catch when his levels spiked two years ago.

After several tests over the year, he eventually received a firm diagnosis of prostate cancer and opted to have his prostate removed in order to treat it. 

Speaking about his diagnosis and treatment, Chris said: “The news certainly didn’t scare me. I know everyone is different, but my first impression was ‘I’ll be fine’. I didn’t instantly think ‘this is probably just going to kill me.’ I just thought, ‘OK, we’ll do what we have to do.’

“I had very good advice and all the treatment options were given to me, and I decided to have my prostate removed. That operation was on 7 May 2025, so a month and a few days after I was diagnosed. 

“The recovery went well and I’m feeling great now, and am delighted that my PSA level is now zero. I’m pragmatic by nature and tend to just want to get on with things, but I don’t want to shy away from this. I really hope that my story might be able to help somebody.” 

Chris’ experience highlights the vital role early detection can play. 

When found early, prostate cancer is easier to treat. But early-stage prostate cancer doesn’t usually cause symptoms, which means many men won’t know anything is wrong. 

That’s why it’s essential that men understand their risk and know what they can do about it. In Chris’ case, regular monitoring meant changes in his PSA levels were identified and acted on promptly, helping make sure his cancer was diagnosed and treated in time. 

Knowing your risk

In the UK, 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. But your risk is higher if you’re over 50, if you’re Black, or if you have a family history of the disease.  

Chris’ experience brings several of these risk factors into focus as a Black man who also lost his father to prostate cancer in 2023. 

Reflecting on being in a higher-risk group, and how it made him more aware of the disease, Chris said: “I'm very, very conscious of prostate cancer and how it affects a huge percentage of people. Lots of my friends and family have also had prostate issues or passed away through prostate cancer, so it’s an area that is very much close to my heart.” 

Prostate Cancer UK Chief Executive Laura Kerby echoed the importance of risk awareness, saying: “Chris’ story is ultimately a positive one. But it’s also a timely reminder of the dangers of prostate cancer and we thank him for sharing his story in the football community, and helping men. 

“Prostate cancer is now the most common cancer in the UK, and it’s still the only major cancer without a screening programme. It doesn’t give you signs or symptoms in its earlier stages when it’s more treatable, so awareness is everything.” 

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