Footballer Kevin McDonald hails 'hero' brother after transplant

Scotland midfielder Kevin McDonald has hailed his brother as an “unsung hero” after a successful kidney transplant.

Fraser McDonald donated a kidney to his sibling who is now recovering at home following the operation at the end of May.

The former Dundee midfielder, who has five Scotland caps, revealed earlier this year that he was in urgent need of a transplant after living with chronic kidney disease for years.

The 32-year-old, who played for Fulham in the English Premier League last season, was initially diagnosed at the age of 18 but still managed over 500 games on both sides of the border.

Fraser made the ‘unbelievable gesture’ after being approved as a match.

Posting on his Instagram page on Monday McDonald, who has also had spells with Burnley, Sheffield United and Wolves, also hailed medical staff for caring for him during his “longer than expected stay” at Guys’ Hospital.

He said: “So after longer than expected in hospital following my kidney transplant; it’s been great to spend the past couple of weeks at home recovering and feeling better each day building up my fitness.

“I would like to give a huge thanks to everyone involved in my care at Guys’ Hospital, I really can’t thank them enough.

“A special thanks to my surgeon Prof Mamode who went above and beyond to ensure I had the best possible care at all times.

“And finally to the unsung hero of this all my brother Fraser, there are literally no words in this world to describe how grateful I am for this unbelievable gesture, you have given me a gift that I can never repay. I am forever thankful, I love you.”