Celtic hero Hartson hit by two forms of cancer

(PA)

John Hartson's former club Celtic were among those yesterday who offered their support to the retired Wales international who has been diagnosed with brain and testicular cancer.

The 34-year-old was given the news at the weekend following tests at the Singleton Hospital in Swansea where he had gone suffering from severe headaches. The consultant treating Hartson said yesterday that his patient had "symptoms consistent with testicular cancer" and that the cancer had spread to his brain.

Hartson played for seven English clubs but it is his time at Celtic where he enjoyed the most success, scoring 89 goals for the club over five years. He won the players' and journalists' player of the season trophy in Scotland in 2005. He will now undergo a course of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in the Singleton Hospital.

A statement from Celtic said: "John Hartson is a man whom Celtic football club has immense respect and affection for. We will offer any support we can to a great Celtic player. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Celtic family are with John at this time."