Ipswich coach Gary Ablett has been diagnosed with a type of blood cancer.
Ipswich coach suffering from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
Ipswich coach Gary Ablett has been diagnosed with a type of blood cancer.
The former Liverpool and Everton defender was taken ill last week, suffering from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and is now being treated in hospital in Suffolk.
The 44-year-old was relegated with Stockport last season to League Two but took up a coaching role under Roy Keane at the Tractor Boys.
An Everton statement on their
official website said: "Gary has always been a popular figure at Goodison, where he has forged a host of friendships through his time here as a player and a coach.
"An FA Cup winner as part of Joe Royle's famous Everton side in 1995, he returned to Goodison in 2002 as a senior coach within the Blues' Academy. He departed Goodison in 2006 to take up a position as reserve team boss for Liverpool but has maintained strong friendships on the blue half of the city.
"Our thoughts are with Gary and his family at this time."
Liverpool tribute
Liverpool were also quick to send their best wishes to Ablett, who started his career at Anfield in 1983 and won two league titles with the Reds.
A statement on the club's
official website read: "Liverpool have been shocked and saddened to learn that Gary Ablett is facing a battle against cancer.
"The former Reds defender, who recently enjoyed a successful stint as reserve team coach, has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma after being taken ill last week.
"Everyone at the club would like to extend their best wishes to Gary and hopes that he makes a speedy recovery."
