Cancer patient who went viral after Scotland win dies aged 79

An elderly cancer patient who went viral after receiving a video message from Scotland manager Steve Clarke has died aged 79.

William Thomson passed away peacefully at the Strathcarron Hospice in Falkirk on December 10.

He was seen beaming with joy last month after receiving a personal message from “magic manager” Clarke shortly after the national team’s historic penalty shoot-out win over Serbia to reach Euro 2020.

The Scotland National Team shared their condolences on Twitter.

They wrote: “We’re saddened to hear about Willie’s passing. Our thoughts are with the Thomson family at this difficult time.”

We're saddened to hear about Willie's passing.

Our thoughts are with the Thomson family at this difficult time. https://t.co/e03OnN1Iae
— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) December 14, 2020

Clarke responded with a video message after Strathcarron Hospice shared a video of Mr Thomson’s reaction following the famous penalty shoot-out victory in Belgrade on November 12.

Clarke said: “Willie, I saw your picture on Twitter.

“Fantastic to see you with that smile on your face. Says what it means to everybody in the country.

“I hope you enjoyed the night. I hope you’re proud of the boys, their performance.

“And we’re certainly proud of you.”

The Strathcarron Hospice provides palliative care to people in Forth Valley, Cumbernauld and Kilsyth.

John O’Connor & Son Funeral Home Camelon posted a message on Facebook, reading: “We sadly announce the passing of William. At this point, funeral arrangements are yet to be finalised.

“Our thoughts are with the Thomson family at this sad time.”