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Daily Record
National
James Moncur & Ryan Carroll

Former Scotland star Kevin McNaughton thanks fans for support after concerning online posts

Former Scotland star Kevin McNaughton has thanked fans for their support after posts on social media caused concern for his wellbeing last week.

The ex-Aberdeen and Cardiff player was reported missing for a period of time before thankfully being found safe and well in Dundee.

On Sunday night he thanked people for their messages, saying: “Just a quick message to say thank you for the support over the last few days from everyone.

“Can’t really put into words how much it has meant.”

Among those wishing Kevin well last week was Ross County manager Malky Mackay, his former gaffer at Cardiff City.

Kevin McNaughton in action for Scotland (SNS)

Mackay said: “I got that news this morning, and thankfully he has been found.

“Kevin is someone that meant a lot to me in terms of our time together at Cardiff. There are some real fond memories.

“He’s a terrific pro, and what a champion for Cardiff City he was.

“After hearing that news, I just reiterate wishing him and his family nothing but the best.”

Last Thursday morning it was reported Kevin's car was stolen from his home.

This sparked despair as the 39-year-old took to Twitter to explain his anguish.

He explained in the post his belongings in the stolen vehicle were all he had and the robbery had come at a difficult time.

In the post, he said: "To the guy that stole my car, you stole a lot of my clothes in a tough time, you stole my life. It might mean nothing to you, but it was all I had."

Police confirmed they then received a report of concern for a person after the former Aberdeen and Cardiff City star went missing from his home at around 9.05am.

Officers carried out searches and following enquiries he was thankfully found safe and well.

McNaughton is currently a youth team coach at Dundee.

Kevin McNaughton playing for Cardiff City against Manchester United in 2014. (Getty)

In a glittering career, he made 173 appearances for the Dons and played 254 times for Cardiff before moving on to Bolton, Wigan, Inverness and Forfar.

McNaughton also starred for his country and has four Scotland caps.

Following the news, messages of support from former teammates and friends flooded in on social media.

Former Scotland and Rangers striker Kevin Kyle said: "Kev don’t really know your circumstances but been through many a hard time myself, I’m glad you’re feeling better and if you ever want a chat my DMs are always open, I wish you well bud."

Former Bolton defender David Wheater said: "Love it Kev, good times ahead mate."

Ex-Scotland star Charlie Adam said: "Stay strong mate. We are here for you"

Former goalkeeper Paddy Kenny said: "Glad your ok Kev pal, keep fighting pal I’ve not been 100% but you have family and friends who love dearly. Ever need a chat I’m here pal "

Kevin McNaughton of Inverness Caledonian Thistle reacts at full time after the match against Motherwell. (Iain MacNicol)

CSKA Sofia winger Yanic Wildschut, who spent time at Cardiff City in 2018, said: "Here for you if I can help you with anything superkevv."

Scottish fan page Inside the SPFL said: "That tweet a few days ago was real, raw and heartbreaking but it might just be one of the best things you've done, the out-pouring of love and concern for you was genuine, you mean so much to so many, if you ever need to talk you now know you have thousands who'll want to listen."

Meanwhile, Cardiff City FC tweeted a blue love heart emoji in response to McNaughton's tweet.

Cardiff City FC posted: "Show this man your love and support today. Super Kev McNaughton."

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Around 9.05am on Thursday, January 27 officers received a report of concern for a 39-year-old man in Dundee who was missing from his home.

"Officers carried out searches and enquiries and he was found safe and well in the Dundee area."

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