Celtic have offered their support to John Hartson after it emerged that the former Hoops striker is battling cancer. The 34-year-old has been diagnosed with testicular cancer which has now spread to his brain.

He was given the news at the weekend following tests at the Singleton Hospital in Swansea after complaining of severe headaches.

Hartson was signed by Martin O’Neill in 2001 and was a popular figure with fans during the five years he spent at Parkhead.

During that time, he scored 89 league goals for Celtic and was voted Player of the Year by both his fellow professionals and the Scottish Football Writers Association.

A celtic spokesperson told www.celticfcnet: “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. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Celtic family are with John at this time.”