Former Carlisle United captain Nick Anderton says cancerous cells in a tumour he recently had removed were more aggressive than previously thought.

It means the defender must undergo a period of chemotherapy that will last for several months.

Anderton, 26, was in July diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.

The Bristol Rovers player underwent surgery in October to remove part of the affected bone in his femur.

Now the former Carlisle and Barrow man has given an update on his situation on social media.

"Following the recent announcement of my diagnosis with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, I have some further news that I wish to share," he said.

"I underwent a successful operation on Wednesday, October 5 to remove the tumorous area.

"After the operation, the tumour was sent off for further analysis, and the biopsy revealed that the cancerous cells were more aggressive than previously thought.

"Because of this I now need to undergo chemotherapy treatment. This process has now begun and will last for several months.

"I would like to thank my family, friends, fans, team-mates and the whole football community for their support - it means the world to me. Nick."

Supporters of Bristol Rovers, plus Anderton's former clubs as well as people across football have inundated the defender with messages of support.

Bristol Rovers, in a statement, said the news of the aggressive cancerous cells "has come as a shock to Nick and his family, and the club would like to reiterate its unwavering support for him.”

Chief executive Tom Gorringe added: "Sadly, the prognosis Nick has received has developed over the past few months, but we are all incredibly thankful that it was uncovered as early as it was and that he has been afforded such great care and support early on.

“Nick remains an integral part of our squad and everyone has remained in constant contact with him to offer our support and to do what we can to try and help him and his family through this difficult time.

“Nick’s response and positivity, despite the adversity he is currently facing, is admirable and he is an inspiration to us all.

"I have no doubt that he will tackle his chemotherapy like he has the various hurdles that have been placed in front of him already and we look forward to welcoming him back to The Mem once his course has finished.”

Anderton played for Carlisle from 2020-21, having been with Barrow from 2015-17.

His other previous clubs include Preston North End, Accrington Stanley and Blackpool.

Carlisle's away travel fans group CUSAT fans recently raised £212 for Anderton through a raffle of one of his match-worn shirts.

The supporters said they wanted to show Anderton "support from the Carlisle United family".