Norwich goalkeeper Dan Barden has revealed that he has been diagnosed with testicular cancer.
The 20-year-old - who has been on loan at Scottish side Livingston - says the news has come as a 'real shock'.
It follows the news last week that Bournemouth and Wales player David Brooks was diagnosed with the disease.
Barden will take a break from football.
The club can confirm goalkeeper Dan Barden has been diagnosed with testicular cancer.
After the initial diagnosis, Barden has since undergone follow up tests and will continue with a closely monitored treatment programme over the coming period.#NCFC— Norwich City FC (@NorwichCityFC) October 18, 2021
"It has been a very difficult and challenging period, but the support of my family, friends and colleagues has helped get me through the last few weeks," Barden said.
"I can't thank the medical departments at both Norwich and Livingston enough, as well as everyone at the Royal Marsden Hospital.
"The speed at which everything has moved has been crazy, but everyone has been absolutely brilliant with me," Barden said.
"Both Daniel Farke and the Livingston manager, David Martindale, have also been very supportive.
"The initial diagnosis was a real shock for me, but the positive thing is that we've caught it early and the prognosis and next steps have all been positive.
"I'm optimistic and have a positive mindset. I'm confident that I'll be able to beat it and that I'll be back out there doing what I love soon.
"I'd like to thank everyone around me for their support. I know that the coming period will be challenging and would ask for privacy for me and my family at this stage. Where possible, I'll do what I can to update on my progress.
"Thank you once again for the support. See everyone soon."
Norwich City sporting director Stuart Webber added good wishes from the club.
"Our love and thoughts are with him and his family as he starts this latest challenge in his life.
"Dan is part of our family and we look out for our own. He knows we are with him every step of the way.
"The care and attention Dan has had so far has been top class. We thank everyone who has looked out for him and we are grateful for Livingston, for acting on Dan's symptoms and alerting us."
"We can't wait to welcome Dan back to Carrow Road and the Lotus Training Centre."
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