Former Arsenal and Glasgow Celtic striker John Hartson has been diagnosed with testicular cancer which has now spread to his brain.
According to The Scottish Sun newspaper, the 34-year-old was given the news at the weekend following tests in Swansea's Singleton Hospital after complaining of severe headaches.
"If anyone can beat this, I can," Hartson said.
Celtic were quick to offer their support to their former player, who still a massive hero to Hoops fans.
A Celtic spokesperson told the club's official website: "John Hartson is a man whom Celtic Football Club has immense respect and affection for.
"He has served the club, and the game of football in general, with distinction over many years.
"Clearly, everyone at the club fully supports John and his family at this extremely difficult time.
"It is very difficult for us to understand what John is going through at the moment, but we will offer any support we can to a great Celtic player."
Hartson was signed by then Celtic manager Martin O'Neill in 2001 and spent five years at Parkhead, scoring 89 goals.
Before his five seasons in Scotland, Hartson played with Arsenal, West Ham and Wimbledon.
He finished his career with West Bromwich Albion in February 2008 when he announced his retirement after being released by the club.
According to The Scottish Sun newspaper, the 34-year-old was given the news at the weekend following tests in Swansea's Singleton Hospital after complaining of severe headaches.
"If anyone can beat this, I can," Hartson said.
Celtic were quick to offer their support to their former player, who still a massive hero to Hoops fans.
A Celtic spokesperson told the club's official website: "John Hartson is a man whom Celtic Football Club has immense respect and affection for.
"He has served the club, and the game of football in general, with distinction over many years.
"Clearly, everyone at the club fully supports John and his family at this extremely difficult time.
"It is very difficult for us to understand what John is going through at the moment, but we will offer any support we can to a great Celtic player."
Hartson was signed by then Celtic manager Martin O'Neill in 2001 and spent five years at Parkhead, scoring 89 goals.
Before his five seasons in Scotland, Hartson played with Arsenal, West Ham and Wimbledon.
He finished his career with West Bromwich Albion in February 2008 when he announced his retirement after being released by the club.
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