Nick Anderton released a statement
Bristol Rovers defender Nick Anderton has revealed that he has been diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer, known as osteosarcoma.
Anderton, who joined from Carlisle United in 2021, was a key figure in Rovers' promotion to League One last season but will now take time away from football to undergo an operation in an effort to treat the condition.
Anderton updated supporters on his situation in a statement
The 30-year-old released a statement via the club's social media channels to update supporters on his situation, as well as wish his teammates the best for the upcoming season.
He said: "Unfortunately, this rare form of cancer which is affecting my femur means that I’ll be undergoing an operation in the coming weeks.
"This diagnosis has come as a huge shock to both myself and my family; however, we are remaining positive and hopeful.
"I want to thank everyone at Bristol Rovers, especially Club Doctor Ian Ferguson and Head of Medical Stuart Leake, the specialists at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham and my family for their continued support.
"I want to wish the boys all the best for the upcoming season, starting this Saturday back at The Mem. Hopefully I can be swinging off another traffic light on Gloucester Road come May!"
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A number of clubs and players from across the country also posted their message of support to Anderton while Rovers chief executive Tom Gorringe said: "Everyone at Bristol Rovers shares our sympathies for Nick at this difficult time and we will do everything possible to help support Nick and his family during his recovery.
"I am sure everyone will want to show their support for Nick, which will help him immensely as he recovers," he continued. "I would also ask that everyone shows respect for his and his family’s privacy during this time."
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