Bristol Rovers defender Nick Anderton diagnosed with rare bone cancer

Bristol Rovers defender Nick Anderton has been diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer, but vowed to be ‘swinging off another traffic light’ in celebration come May.

The 26-year-old released a statement on Twitter confirming he has osteosarcoma, which will require an operation in the coming weeks to remove part of his femur bone.

Left back Anderton joined Rovers in 2021 and played a crucial role in the club’s dramatic promotion to League One on the final day of last season with a 7-0 thrashing of Scunthorpe.

‘Unfortunately I’ve been diagnosed with osteosarcoma,’ he said.

‘This is a rare form of cancer that is affecting my femur. I’ll be undergoing an operation to remove this part of the bone in the coming weeks.

Anderton will undergo surgery to remove part of his affected femur bone in the coming weeks

Anderton (centre) was part of the team that helped Bristol Rovers get promoted to League One

‘This diagnosis has come as a huge shock to both myself and my family. However, we are remaining positive and hopeful. 

‘I want to thank everyone at Bristol Rovers, especially club doctor Ian Ferguson and head of medical Stuart Leake.’

Rovers chief executive Tom Gorringe added: ‘We will do everything possible to help support Nick and his family during his recovery.

‘I am sure everyone will want to show their support for Nick, which will help him immensely as he recovers. I would also ask everyone to show respect for his privacy at this time.’