Cardiff City have announced the devastating news that Sol Bamba has been diagnosed with cancer and is starting a course of chemotherapy.
The 35-year-old defender, who's played over 100 games for the Bluebirds and was a rock in their 2017/18 season which ended in Premier League promotion, has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
The Ivory Coast international, who's also played for Leeds United, Leicester City, Hibs and Dunfermline among other clubs, had been out of action since December.
Cardiff City released a statement saying the player was in "typically positive spirits" but asked fans to share their messages of support, while at the same time respecting the player's privacy.
We are saddened to inform supporters that Sol Bamba has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
With the close support of the Club's medical team, Sol has immediately started a course of chemotherapy treatment.
:arrow_right: https://t.co/xvwoA7oVxq
We are all with you, Sol. :blue_heart: pic.twitter.com/O2KSn4nAoh
- Cardiff City FC (@CardiffCityFC) January 11, 2021
"We are saddened to inform supporters that Sol Bamba has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma," read the Cardiff statement.
"With the close support of the Club's medical team, Sol has immediately started a course of chemotherapy treatment.
"Universally admired by teammates, staff and supporters in the Welsh capital, Sol has begun his battle in typically positive spirits and will continue to be an integral part of the Bluebirds family. During treatment, Sol will support his teammates at matches and our younger players within the Academy, with whom he will continue his coaching development.
"All future updates on Sol's progress will be provided only via official Club channels. While we request privacy for him and his family at this time, messages of support to be passed on to Sol may be sent to [email protected]
"We are all with you, Sol."
A great pro, a top career and a wonderful servant of the club. Best wishes and get well soon @Sol14Bamba pic.twitter.com/XN8UKq2842
- Tony Rivers (@TonyRivers1927) January 11, 2021
The thoughts and best wishes of everyone at #LUFC are with Sol Bamba. Get well soon, the Leeds family is right behind you! #MOT pic.twitter.com/SGg7cDvY9n
- Leeds United (@LUFC) January 11, 2021
Bamba began his career at Paris Saint-Germain but has played in Italy, Turkey, England and Scotland.
However it's at Cardiff City where he has become a firm fan favourite and hero.
Just seen the news about Sol Bamba. Wishing prayers, love & positive energy to you & yours :pray::pray::heart::heart:
- daRealAAkinfenwa (@daRealAkinfenwa) January 11, 2021
Best of luck Sol, everyone is behind you mate. Stay strong x
- Lee Trundle (@LeeTrundle10) January 11, 2021
We wish a speedy recovery for our former player Sol Bamba. Our biggest wish is to see him in the best of health as quick as possible :pray: @Sol14Bamba https://t.co/5IzC9N9bTg pic.twitter.com/c6frNBKIlq
- Trabzonspor (@Trabzonspor) January 11, 2021
Support immediately began coming in from around the football world, wishing a quick recovery to an extremely popular individual. Get well soon, Sol.
Featured image credit: PA Images
Topics: Football News, Football, Cardiff City
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