West Ham Utd has confirmed that Greek Australian striker Dylan Tombides is having treatment for testicular cancer.
The club’s academy player of the year was diagnosed while he was away on international duty last month with Australia at the FIFA Under 17s World Cup in Mexico.
Dylan immediately returned to England and the Hammers’ medical staff arranged for a further assessment by doctors.
The 17-year-old has already started his first course of chemotherapy at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London, which is the standard treatment for his condition. He has since returned home to rest and will continue further treatment in the coming weeks.
West Ham club doctor Sean Howlett revealed: “Dylan is receiving the best possible care. All the doctors involved have advised Dylan that he will make a full recovery in terms of his illness and his ability to return to his football career.
“He is undergoing the standard series of treatments for his condition which is a course of chemotherapy.”
Academy director Tony Carr added: “Everyone at the club is right behind Dylan and we all wish him a speedy and healthy recovery. The doctors are all very positive and he is in the best possible hands. We look forward to seeing him back with us when he is ready.”
Former Newcastle defender and Australia international Craig Moore, was diagnosed with testicular cancer two-and-a-half years ago, has been providing support to Dylan over the past few weeks.
“I spoke to Dylan not long after the diagnosis and my message was that he should stay extremely positive,” said Moore. “The success rates in treating this form of the disease are very high and I’m fortunate that I have the all clear.
“It’s tough for a teenager to deal with this, but Dylan has plenty of support from family and friends and I will be among many people who’ll be there for him throughout this time.
“I’ve told him to keep his head up and not to get too frustrated about missing his pre-season with West Ham. He’s a quality player with a great attitude and he can overcome this challenge.”
