Footballers send support to Jonas Gutierrez after he announces cancer battle

A number of footballers and figures within the game have sent messages of support to Newcastle United midfielder Jonas Gutierrez after he was diagnosed with testicular cancer.

The 31-year-old, who is back in his native Argentina, revealed this week that he had his left testicle removed after beginning chemotherapy.

Following the news, a number of Gutierrez's former teammates and Premier League clubs have expressed their support towards the player on Twitter.

Below are a selection of tweets from sportsmen rallying behind the player:

"Heard the terrible news about @elgalgojonas Wish him a speedy recovery. Great guy with a great family. My thoughts are with them all x" Queens Park Rangers midfielder Joey Barton

"Wish u all the best and speedy recovery for the fight against cancer big man!!! #JonasGutierrez" Schalke's Kevin-Prince Boateng

Thoughts are with @elgalgojonas but hes a fighter and a great lad and I wish him a speedy recovery #GetWellSoonJonas pic.twitter.com/aup31HNGwh

— Danny Simpson (@dannysimpson) September 17, 2014

"Thoughts & prayers go out to @elgalgojonas! Fight well & stay strong bro!" Norwich City winger Nathan Redmond

"My thoughts and prayers are with @elgalgojonas and his family stay strong bro." Reading defender Anton Ferdinand

We wish Newcastle's Jonas Gutierrez a full and speedy recovery after he revealed he is battling testicular cancer... pic.twitter.com/lKa6TRKSxM

— Chelsea FC (@chelseafc) September 17, 2014

"So sad to hear of the news about @elgalgojonas stay strong Spider-Man #prayforjonas" Former Newcastle United player Terry McDermott