Support for Carl Ikeme pours in following Leukaemia diagnosis

A club statement released yesterday confirmed the 31-year-old will start an immediate course of chemotherapy after he returned an abnormal blood test following his return to pre-season training.

Former Wolves midfielder Thomas was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia in 2003.

He is currently taking part in a cycle ride across Europe in a bid to raise £1m for blood cancer charity Cure Leukaemia.

And after hearing about Ikeme’s news, the former England international reached out to his fellow professional.

“If there is anything I can do to help Carl I will be there for him,” Thomas said. “It’s important now he lets everything settle. He needs to take all the information in and he get his mind set.

“He needs to look after himself, look after his family and those close to him.

“Football comes a distant second at times like these. It’s a dark time.

“But the good news is more and more people are beating this terrible disease.

“The UK is a leading light in the battle against blood cancer.

“I wish him all the best and will be there if he needs to talk to someone who has been through it.”

Former Villa and Celtic midfielder Petrov was diagnosed with acute leukaemia in 2012.

He took to social networking sit Twitter to send his support to Ikeme.

“Stay strong buddy,” he tweeted. “You will win this battle no doubt about it. Be strong and believe.”

Wolves’ players also posted a flurry of messages in support of their popular team-mate.

Jordan Graham said: “Kemes you’re like a second father to me. The love I have for you I can’t even put into words. Stay strong we are ALL with you bro!”

Dave Edwards said: “On and off the pitch you are role model to so many @Carl_Ikeme...we are all by you and your family’s side right now and we all love you.”

Jon Dadi Bodvarsson said: “Devastated to hear the news. Stay strong @Carl_Ikeme. We are all together with you and your family.”

Nouha Dicko said: “No words can express how I feel right now. I love you Carl. We are all with you, you are a strong man, a strong wolf. Stay strong bro.”

Jack Price said: “Stay strong brother. We all look up to you. Much love x.”

Matt Doherty said: “Praying for you and your family big man. @Carl_Ikeme stay strong bud we are with you all the way.”

Fellow Wolves goalkeeper Andy Lonergan added: “Stay strong big man. You’re a fighter. You will overcome this. All the love to you and your family.”

There was also a host of messages from other high-profile figures in the game.

Albion keeper Ben Foster said: “So sad to hear that @Carl_Ikeme has been diagnosed with leukaemia. Best wishes big man, stay strong.”

World Cup winner and fellow shot-stopper Iker Casillas added: “Much much strength @Carl_Ikeme! I send you a big hug.”

Last month Rochdale midfielder Joe Thompson announced he had beaten cancer for a second time. He said: “Thoughts are with you @Carl_Ikeme I know the journey you and your family are about to embark on! If you need any advice don’t hesitate to call.”

While Pat McFadden, MP for Wolverhampton South East, said: “The whole of Wolverhampton will be behind Wolves ‘keeper Carl Ikeme tonight after news of his diagnosis with leukaemia.”