Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen has sent a heartfelt message to Carl Ikeme after his Wolverhampton Wanderers counterpart was diagnosed with acute leukaemia.
The Championship club announced on Thursday that the 31-year-old is to undergo a course of chemotherapy, having been alerted to the condition by abnormal blood results during pre-season testing.
A number of current and former pros have sent their best wishes to the Nigeria international as he begins his battle, including Barcelona stopper Ter Stegen who admits that he has been greatly affected by the news.
"Today I read the story about Carl Ikeme, a goalkeeper for Nigeria and Wolverhampton, who's been diagnosed with acute leukaemia. A person I've never met but his story affects me and touches my heart," he posted on his personal Facebook page.
"I can't underline how important health is. In sport, it means a lot for every athlete; and it's not just crucial so that we perform well but our health does affect us mentally also. I wish Carl and his family all the strength in the world.
"I'm sure his teammates and club will be there too, and all their fans. It's important to be united! And me too, I offer all my possible support. I'm hoping he can fight like goalkeepers always do, with a calm and positive mind. I believe in you, Carl. Be strong. Be brave."
Ikeme has spent his entire senior career with the West Midlands outfit, making more than 200 appearances in the past 14 years.
Daniel Lewis
