Football united in support of Carl Ikeme

The 31-year-old’s diagnosis – discovered by routine blood tests carried out by the club – sent shockwaves through the game with greats quick to rally behind the Molineux star.

It is understood former Villa captain Stiliyan Petrov, who himself beat leukaemia after being diagnosed with the disease four years ago, has been in touch with Ikeme to offer his support.

And former boss Mick McCarthy, the man who made Ikeme the first-choice goalkeeper at Wolves, also spoke of his shock at the news.

McCarthy, now boss of Championship rivals Ipswich Town, managed Ikeme from 2006 to 2012. He told the Express & Star: “I was shocked and saddened to hear the news about Carl and want to wish him the very best for his battle ahead. My thoughts are with him and his family.”

Goalkeeping greats from across Europe also threw their weight behind Ikeme.

Porto’s former Real Madrid star Iker Casillas, Manchester United’s David De Gea and Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen all offered their sympathy.

De Gea tweeted: “All goalkeepers and the football family are with you,” while Spain great Casillas wrote: “A lot of strength, I send you a big hug”.

Barcelona goalkeeper Ter Stegen added: “A person I’ve never met but his story affects me and touches my heart... I wish Carl and his family all the strength in the world. Im sure his team-mates and club will be there too, and all their fans.

“I believe in you, Carl. Be strong. Be brave.”

Arsenal’s Petr Cech wished him ‘all the best’, while fellow Premier League goalkeepers Ben Foster, Loris Karius and Asmir Begovic were among thousands to post messages of support on Twitter.

Crystal Palace’s Wayne Hennessey, a former team-mate of Ikeme, added: “Sending my love to you Carl Ikeme and your family at this time. Keep strong big man, I know you’re a fighter!”

Former Wolves boss Paul Lambert backed the club and fans alike to help Ikeme in his fight. Lambert said: The club, the supporters, they’re all great people and he’ll get all the support he needs.

“You need that strength and love. And the medical staff, people like Doc Perry and Phil Hayward, they’re fantastic people who will help him.”