Super Eagles goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme has been diagnosed with acute leukaemia. It was confirmed by the football club he plays for, Wolverhampton Wanderers on Thursday evening.
The Championship club say Ikeme, 31, returned “abnormal blood tests” during pre-season testing and further checks confirmed the diagnosis.
Ikeme has been with Wolves for his entire career, making more than 200 appearances for Wanderers.
According to the official statement released by his club,“the 31-year-old Nigerian international goalkeeper returned some abnormal blood tests during his pre-season testing, and further medical investigation has revealed he is suffering from leukaemia, Carl will now start an immediate course of chemotherapy as he begins a lengthy battle against the disease”.
Wolves’ Managing Director, Laurie Dalrymple, added: “It would be an understatement to say that everyone at Wolves has been shocked and saddened to hear the news of Carl’s diagnosis.
“That relates to both players and staff as Carl has been at the club for a very long time and remains such an integral personality within the group.
“At the same time, we all know what a fighter and a competitor Carl is, and I have no doubt that he will take all of those attributes into this battle.
“Similarly, its goes without saying that Carl and his family will receive the full love and support that we at Wolves can provide – we are all with him every single step of the way towards a full recovery.
“There are going to be some very tough times ahead, but he will receive the best possible care, aided and supported by our own club doctor and medical team, as he embarks on the lengthy process of treatment.
“We are speaking to Carl regularly, and sending him our very best wishes as he comes to terms with this news and starts his recovery.”
The club also asked for privacy for Ikeme and his family. However, Football clubs, players and team-mates of Ikeme, past and present, have been offering their support to the goalkeeper on social media.
