League Two outfit Cheltenham Town has announced that striker Eliot Richards has been diagnosed with testicular cancer.
The 23-year-old joined the Robins from Tranmere Rovers on transfer deadline day in the winter, and has since played 8 times for the fourth-tier side.
Featuring just 11 days ago during a 2-2 draw away to Portsmouth, Richards previously featured 13 times for Tranmere after a move from Exeter City in the summer.
Having scored one goal this season for Russell Milton’s side, the Welshman will now undergo surgery as early as next week, with the club hopeful he can make a full recovery – and potentially return to professional football in the future.
"The club will of course ensure that every assistance is offered to Eliot and his family to help them through this difficult time,” a club statement read. "In due course we expect Eliot to make a full recovery.
"In the meantime, we know that all Cheltenham supporters will want to join us in wishing Eliot and his family well in the days and weeks ahead."
The Wales Under-19 and Under-21 international made over 100 appearances for Bristol Rovers over five years, after progressing through the youth ranks with the Pirates.
News of Richards’ diagnosis comes just a month after Newcastle United midfielder Jonas Gutierrez made a full return from his treatment for testicular cancer, having now returned to action for the first team.
Former Everton and Bolton Wanderers defender Neil Harris, a Millwall icon – has also made a full recovery after the diagnosis previously.
Testicular cancer commonly affects men between the ages of 15 and 49, and accounts for just one percent of cancer suffered by men. One of the most treatable types of cancers, more than 96% of men who find the cancer in its early-stage make a full recovery.
Richards scored his first goal for the club in his most recent appearance at Fratton Park.