Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Carl Ikeme has said that he wants to "thank the football world and especially the Wolves fans" for the support he has received since his leukaemia diagnosis.
The Midlands outfit announced in July that the 31-year-old had been diagnosed with the disease following routine blood tests during pre-season training, and he is currently undergoing treatment.
Blood cancer charity Cure Leukaemia has been working closely with Wolves to raise awareness and vital funds in support of Ikeme, who has made over 200 appearances for the club.
In a statement published by the Birmingham Mail, Ikeme said: "I want to thank the whole football world and especially the Wolves fans for the love and support I have received since I was diagnosed with leukaemia.
"It has been a huge shock for myself and my family but I am determined to beat this and I know that the support everyone has shown me will help me do just that.
"I'd also like to thank Cure Leukaemia for their support and I think the 'Donate Your Name' idea will be a great way to raise funds and awareness for this disease.
"As a man of Nigerian descent I am also passionate about urging people from ethnic minority backgrounds to join the stem cell transplantation register.
"More awareness is needed of the shortage of ethnic minority donors currently on the register and I am keen to make an impact to change that.
"But I also think we need more donors from all backgrounds to come forward as I am learning more and more how vitally important it is for when someone needs a transplant.
"I am already planning ways to try and raise awareness and to focus more activity around encouraging donors from all backgrounds to come forward at a Wolves fixture in the near future."
Ikeme, who made 33 appearances in all competitions last season, has spent his entire career with Wolves.
Giuseppe Labellarte
