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Chris Kamara reveals there is ‘no downside to being me’ in an encouraging update on his health following recent reports.
Kamara, whose charisma earned him plenty of fans during his 24 years with Sky Sports, was diagnosed with the rare neurological condition that affects your ability to speak in 2022.
In recent days, prior to working an event with Burton’s Fish ‘N’ Chips in Camden, London, the popular pundit admitted he has been struggling with his balance.
However, when speaking to Mail Sport in north London, the 67-year-old claimed that ‘it may look worse than it actually is’, and his speech has vastly improved.
‘I’m always surprised at how lovely people are towards me,’ Kamara tells Mail Sport. ‘It’s amazing, absolutely incredible. It makes me feel humble. There is no downside to being me at the moment, everybody is so nice.
‘My speech has improved. I’m an open book, when I am asked a question, I answer honestly. It may look worse than it actually is, and my balance may be worse than it’s been, but my voice is better.
Chris Kamara pictured this week at an event with Burton’s Fish N Chips in Camden, London
The former footballer turned Sky Sports icon told Mail Sport: ‘There is no downside to being me at the moment, everybody is so nice’
‘There is no thought process going on that is not transferred to the mouth, it’s instant now. So, there is improvement, but downsides in other things, the balance, thyroid, I have a bad back, and might need an operation.
‘But there is always somebody worse off than you. Don’t feel sorry for me, I am still enjoying life.’
The condition forced Kamara to retract from reporting duties with Sky Sports back in 2022, and he found it hard to make appearances in the public eye.
However, in 2024, he made his comeback in broadcasting to provide coverage of Nottingham Forest’s win over Tottenham for Amazon Prime.
Six months on, Kamara can be seen in Camden Market engaging with fans as he served biscuits to celebrate National Fish and Chips Day.
This is something that the once Bradford City and Brentford star couldn’t fathom doing back in 2022, but now he wants to show that the fun-loving character that took to our screens for decades is still here.
‘Two or three years ago, at the height of my condition, I wouldn’t have done anything at all – I didn’t feel capable of doing anything. My brain was all frazzled, I was feeling sorry for myself.
‘That’s all gone now. I want to enjoy life and what is remaining of it. Do the things I want, enjoy time with the family, and its great. That attitude has served me well.’
Kamara watched his old team Sheffield United beat Bristol City at Bramall Lane last month
After working on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday for two decades, Kamara came off air in 2022
Not only is Kamara working on campaigns, but the improvement in his condition has led to a role back in television – but a different aspect of it.
‘I have been offered a part in a film, a part in a sitcom as well. It’s all good,’ he continued, while speaking to Mail Sport in a cafe.
‘I’ve done loads of TV stuff, Ted Lasso, tour appearances in Emmerdale. I love it. I’m not the same person now as I was then, but if they invite me, I will do it now.’
When speaking to Kamara, his humility shines through. Many football fans have gone through life with the once footballer on their screens every weekend.
With numerous fans coming up to him to share their memories of the charming Kamara, he finds it hard to believe how well-known he is.
However, meeting one significant person back in 2022 shocked him, in particular.
‘I was so honoured when I got my MBE from Prince William when he said “I have grown up with you” you don’t think things like that.
‘One of the Royal Family, that is the next King in waiting, has grown up watching you. It’s humbling.’
While engaging with the general public on Friday, Kamara also served them with the nostalgic 80s favourite snack, Fish ‘N’ Chips.
‘I was out there on the streets, bringing the legendary snack back into the spotlight, and let me tell you, the buzz was electric.
‘So many smiling faces, loving the nostalgia and tucking into the tasters, it was the perfect way to celebrate National Fish and Chip Day. Proper magic.’
