Bristol Rovers star diagnosed with rare bone cancer and set to undergo surgery

Bristol Rovers left-back Nick Anderton has revealed he has been diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.

The 26-year-old, who joined the club from Carlisle United in 2021, made more than 30 appearances in League Two last season as Joey Barton 's side won promotion. He is set to have an operation in an effort to treat the condition, with Rovers issuing a message of support.

Anderton has played more than 100 EFL games over the course of his career, and scored his first Rovers goal in October last year. In his own statement, the defender has given an update on his situation while wishing his teammates well for the upcoming season.

"Unfortunately, this rare form of cancer which is affecting my femur means that I'll be undergoing an operation in the coming weeks," Anderton said "This diagnosis has come as a huge shock to both myself and my family; however, we are remaining positive and hopeful.

"I want to thank everyone at Bristol Rovers, especially Club Doctor Ian Ferguson and Head of Medical Stuart Leake, the specialists at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham and my family for their continued support.

"I want to wish the boys all the best for the upcoming season, starting this Saturday back at The Mem. Hopefully I can be swinging off another traffic light on Gloucester Road come May!"

A number of other footballers have sent their well-wishes to Anderton in the light of the news. "Hope your ok buddy sending all our love," Carlisle midfielder Jamie Devitt said.

"Nick my man.... gutted to hear this mate," said Michael Nottingham, who played with the defender at Blackpool. "Wishing you a speedy recovery my bro."

Lincoln City defender Paudie O'Connor was another to show his support. "Speedy recovery bro, no doubt you'll be back on the pitch in no time," the Irishman said.

Clubs from up and down the country also posted supportive messages on social media. They ranged from Premier League side Bournemouth all the way down the pyramid and into non-league.

"Everybody at #BristolCity wishes you a full and swift recovery," was the message from Rovers' neighbours. "All of Bristol is behind you Nick."

Bristol Rovers CEO Tom Gorringe has also provided a message after Anderton's diagnosis, saying: "Everyone at Bristol Rovers shares our sympathies for Nick at this difficult time and we will do everything possible to help support Nick and his family during his recovery.

"I am sure everyone will want to show their support for Nick, which will help him immensely as he recovers," he continued. "I would also ask that everyone shows respect for his and his family's privacy during this time."