BOURNEMOUTH midfielder David Brooks, 24, has been diagnosed with cancer, the club have confirmed.
The Wales international was examined last week after which it was confirmed he has Stage II Hodgkin Lymphoma.
The Cherries confirmed Brooks will undergo treatment next week after an ‘initial positive prognosis’.
The 24-year-old released a statement via club website in which he thanked fans for their support and vowed to return to football.
He said: “This is a very difficult message for me to write.
“I have been diagnosed with Stage II Hodgkin Lymphoma and will begin a course of treatment next week.
“Although this has come as a shock to myself and my family, the prognosis is a positive one and I am confident that I will make a full recovery and be back playing as soon as possible.
“I’d like to show my appreciation to the doctors, nurses, consultants and staff who have been treating me for their professionalism, warmth and understanding during this period.
“I want to thank everyone at the Football Association of Wales because without the swift attention of their medical team we may not have detected the illness.
“I’d also like to say thank you to AFC Bournemouth for all their support and assistance this past week.
“Although I appreciate that there will be media attention and interest, I would like to ask that my privacy is respected in the coming months and I will share updates on my progress when I am able to do so.
“In the meantime, thank you to everyone for their messages of support – it means so much and will continue to do so in the months ahead.
“I look forward to seeing you all again and playing the sport I love very soon.”
Brooks has made nine appearances for the Cherries in the Championship so far this season.
Born in Warrington to a Welsh mother, he has won 21 Wales caps since his international debut back in November 2017.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
