Manchester United and England legend midfielder Bryan Robson is battling cancer, it has emerged.
The 54-year-old, who is currently managing Thailand, underwent an operation to removed a tumour from his throat in Bangkok earlier this month.
A spokesperson for Man United confirmed the news.
They told The Manchester Evening News: “At this moment, Bryan is fine to continue with his role as Thailand coach and his role as ambassador of Manchester United.
“Bryan and family have requested that he can continue with his treatment in private and ask that their privacy is respected.”
Former England captain played 90 times for his nation, scoring 25 goals between 1980 and 1991. He retired from playing in 1996, becoming full-time manager of Middlesborough.
The sad news of Robson’s battle comes a day after Barcelona confirmed defender Eric Abidal was to undergo an operation on a tumour found on his liver.