WARRINGTON-BORN footballer David Brooks has revealed he has been diagnosed with stage two Hodgkin Lymphoma.

The 24-year-old from Woolston – a former Birchwood Community High School pupil – confirmed the news via a statement released on his social media pages and the website of his club, AFC Bournemouth.

Brooks had been on international duty with Wales last week when he left for medical tests which confirmed the diagnosis.

However, the prognosis is a positive one and the midfielder will begin treatment next week.

"This is a very difficult message for me to write," he wrote.

"I have been diagnosed with Stage II Hodgkin Lymphoma and will begin a course of treatment next week.

"Although this has come as a shock to myself and my family, the prognosis is a positive one and I am confident I will make a full recovery and be back playing as soon as possible.

"I'd like to show my appreciation to the doctors, nurses, consultants and staff who have been treating me with their professionalism, warmth and understanding during this period.

"I want to thank everyone at the Football Association of Wales because without the swift attention of their medical team, we may not have detected the illness.

"I'd also like to say thank you to AFC Bournemouth for all their support and assistance this week.

"Although I appreciate there will be media attention and interest, I would like to ask that my privacy is respected in the coming months and I will share updates on my progress when I am able to do so.

"In the meantime, thank you so much to everyone for their messages of support – it means so much and will continue to do so in the months ahead.

"I look forward to seeing you all again and playing the sport I love very soon."