Ivory Coast defender Sol Bamba diagnosed with cancer

Cardiff defender Sol Bamba has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The 35-year-old has started chemotherapy and will be supported by the Bluebirds' medical team. In a statement put out by the club, it is said that Bamba has started his chemotherapy in "typically positive spirits" and will continue to support the Bluebirds while he undergoes treatment. "We are saddened to inform supporters that Sol Bamba has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma," the club said.⁣ "With the close support of the Club's medical team, Sol has immediately started a course of chemotherapy treatment.⁣ "Universally admired by teammates, staff and supporters in the Welsh capital, Sol has begun his battle in typically positive spirits and will continue to be an integral part of the Bluebirds family. During treatment, Sol will support his teammates at matches and our younger players within the Academy, with whom he will continue his coaching development.⁣ "All future updates on Sol’s progress will be provided only via official Club channels. While we request privacy for him and his family at this time, messages of support to be passed on to Sol may be sent to club@cardiffcityfc.co.uk.⁣ "We are all with you, Sol." He helped the club into the Premier League in 2018 and has also had spells at Hibernian and Leicester after starting out at Paris Saint-Germain. Bamba - born in Paris but to Ivorian parents - chose to play for the Ivory Coast and represented them at the 2008 Olympics and was also part of the side that reached the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations final.