Rosler diagnosed with chest cancer

Former Manchester City and Southampton striker Uwe Rosler has been diagnosed with chest cancer.

The 34-year-old German, now with Norwegian club Lillestrom, started having coughing fits a few weeks ago which became progressively worse and he was unable to breathe properly.

After Lillestrom’s game against Bodo/Glimt, he went for an X-ray and the tumour was discovered, but Rosler, who will miss the rest of the Norwegian season, is optimistic of a full recovery.

“When they discovered the tumour in my chest region, I was told that it was found at an early stage. Therefore, the chances of a full recovery are very good,” he said.

“The news of my illness came as a big shock to me and my family but I have always been a fighter, so I am convinced that I will win this struggle – the hardest one in my life.”

Rosler, who scored 65 goals in 173 appearances for City from 1994 to 1998 before later enjoying brief spells with Southampton and West Brom, revealed that he wants to be left alone with his family as he battles to overcome the illness.

“I hope that everyone will understand and respect that,” he added.

“My family and I need all the strength we can put together in the struggle against cancer.”