Norwich keeper Dan Barden, 20, diagnosed with testicular cancer as football world rallies around him
NORWICH have announced goalkeeper Dan Barden has been diagnosed with testicular cancer.
Barden, 20, underwent follow-up tests after receiving the inital diagnosis.
Over the next few weeks the youngster - who is currently on loan at Livingston - will go through a treatment programme to get him back to full health.
Barden said: "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.
“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.
"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.
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"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 (I) 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.”
The news comes just a few days after Bournemouth star David Brooks revealed he has been diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma.
And once again the football family has rallied around to offer up their support.
Clubs from the Premier League and the EFL have wished Barden well, hoping he makes a speedy recovery.
The official Twitter account of the Premier League said: "Sending our best wishes to Dan for a full and speedy recovery."
Tottenham, Brighton, Burnley and Watford were amongst the first top-flight clubs to respond to the news - each wished Dan the best.
BT Sport presenter and Norwich fan Jake Humphrey wrote: "Norwich family got your back Dan."
Bournemouth's players showed their support for their team-mate at the weekend by holding up a Cherries shirt bearing his name to celebrate a goal.
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The club also wished Barden well, tweeting: "We've experienced how powerful the football community can be this week.
"Everyone at Bournemouth sends their best wishes to Dan and his family, and we're sure everyone will unite to support him."
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