Rochdale cult hero Joe Thompson dies aged 36 after third cancer diagnosis

Thompson came through the ranks at Manchester United before earning icon status at Rochdale

Joe Thompson, pictured playing against Tottenham in the FA Cup, battled cancer three separate times (Getty Images)

Former Rochdale player and club cult hero Joe Thompson has died aged 36, a year after being diagnosed with cancer for the third time.

Thompson, a former Manchester United youth product, retired from football in 2019 after his third spell with the Dale, having played over 200 games for the club.

He was dealt two separate cancer diagnoses during his professional career but beat the disease twice before heroically returning to football on both occasions.

"Rochdale Football Club is devastated to learn of the passing of Joe Thompson,” his former club said in a statement.

"Joe, who had been bravely battling cancer for a third time, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, with his family by his side.

"Known by those close to Rochdale as 'Joey T', he made over 200 appearances for his local team, representing the badge with pride."

Thompson was first diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013 while playing for Tranmere, who he joined after six years at Spotland. Following treatment, he later signed for Bury and spent time on loan at Southport and Wrexham as he tried to build his match fitness.

He returned to Rochdale from Carlisle in 2016 but the disease soon returned, forcing another spell on the sidelines as he required extensive treatment.

In June 2017, Thompson announced he was cancer-free and less than a year later scored the goal that kept Rochdale in League One, writing himself into club folklore as Keith Hill’s side beat Charlton on the final day of the season.

He then played a part in the club’s famous FA Cup run in 2018, which saw Steve Davies fire home a 93rd-minute equaliser against Tottenham to send Spotland into raptures and force a third-round replay against the Premier League goliaths. The return clash was at Wembley, no less, with Thompson getting a run out on the hallowed turf as the Dale went out on their sword.

However, Thompson announced his retirement in 2019, saying at the time his body had been pushed "to the limit" by his two fights against Hodgkin lymphoma.

Last year, has was diagnosed with cancer for a third time, with stage four lymphoma which had spread to his lungs.

"We first knew Joe primarily as a talented footballer, but we would soon grow to adore his loving, infectious personality,” Rochdale’s statement continued.

"He faced every battle head-on, both on and off the pitch. His journey and indomitable spirit have been an inspiration for everyone who has been touched by his story.

"Above all of that, Joe was a loving husband to Chantelle and an incredible father to Thailula and Athena Rae.

"Our thoughts are with Joe's family and friends at this incredibly sad time."

Manchester United have been among the plethora of clubs to pay tribute to Thompson, with the midfielder a regular pundit on MUTV following his retirement. He also held an ambassadorial role.

“A man who epitomised our club's values,” United said in a tribute. “We are saddened to share that Joe Thompson has passed away.

“A warm personality who had a deep connection with our club from a young age, our thoughts are with Joe's family and friends at this difficult time.”

Rochdale's players will wear black armbands for their National League match against Altrincham on Friday.