Celtic star Hartson ignored cancer signs

FORMER footballer John Hartson has admitted that he ignored signs of testicular cancer two years ago.

The ex-Arsenal and Celtic striker said it was only when he suffered blinding headaches that he finally sought medical help.

Hartson has been released home from hospital after undergoing treatment for cancer.

The 34-year-old underwent extensive chemotherapy treatment after being diagnosed with testicular cancer which spread to his lungs and brain.

Yesterday the former Wales international said he found a lump two years ago, but ignored the signs and the lump got bigger.

Swansea-born Hartson urged men to get checked by doctors if they notice anything abnormal on their bodies or under their skin. The father-of-three said ignoring the growing lump was a “bloke thing”.

He said: “There was a lump in my testicles which I noticed a good while back. I just didn’t do anything about it.

“It was worrying, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t.”

Hartson also revealed he had told his girlfriend Sarah McManus about the lump, but informed her she should not worry.

He said: “I should have gone to the doctor right away and things might be so different now.

“Don’t wait, because the cancer spreads and all of a sudden you’re in big trouble.”

Ms McManus told the paper: “Everyone is thrilled that John has been allowed home.

“But the last few weeks have been horrendous.”

The former player was initially treated at Swansea’s Morriston Hospital in south Wales before he was transferred to a cancer ward at Singleton Hospital in the city last week. He was discharged from hospital on Tuesday.

The hospital said he would continue with chemotherapy as an outpatient.

His family has also issued a statement thanking all the staff at the two hospitals for “their support in getting John to this stage in his treatment”.

Hartson, who also played for West Ham during his career, retired from football in February last year and had been working as a television pundit.