Monday 27 November 2017 12:01, UK
Birmingham City Ladies goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer and will have surgery next month.
Berger, 27, joined the FA Women's Super League side last year from Paris Saint-Germain where she had helped the club reach the Champions League final.
The German went on to represent the Blues in last season's FA Cup and Continental Cup finals.
Birmingham manager Marc Skinner said: "Initially we were all devastated on hearing the news about Ann.
"However, when we sat down together and discussed the situation almost instantly Ann eradicated the fear and uncertainty.
"She is one of the strongest people I have ever met and the way she conducts herself daily is a true inspiration to all of us.
"The club and team will ensure we do all we can to support Ann and her family through this difficult time.
"I have total belief that Ann will beat this illness and strive to be back playing again in the future and until that time she will be a huge motivating factor for the group."
