Ter Stegen's heartfelt message for goalkeeper diagnosed with leukemia

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André Ter Stegen has posted a message of support for Wolves goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, the Nigerian international who has been diagnosed with leukemia.

Here is the message Ter Stegen posted on his Facebook account for the 31-year-old stopper:

"Today I read the story about Carl Ikeme, a goalkeeper for Nigeria and Wolverhampton, who's been diagnosed with acute leukemia. A person I've never met but his story affects me and touches my heart.

I can't underline how important health is. In sport, it means a lot for every athlete; and it's not just crucial so that we perform well but our health does affect us mentally also. I try to be in the best possible shape, remembering to follow my diet and regularly check up on my health status. I think about this all time. I would never want to see a player get injured, especially when it's serious. I know the feeling and it's the worst.

But more alarming than an injury, is having to stop what you love because of your health. It's complicated to understand and a painful reality to relax. And when the cause is cancer. I am speechless. I don't know what to say.

I wish Carl and his family all the strength in the world. Im sure his teammates and club will be there too, and all their fans. It's important to be united! And me too, I offer all my possible support. I'm hoping he can fight like goalkeepers always do, with a calm and positive mind.

I believe in you, Carl. Be strong. Be brave.

Show your support using #KeepStrong  "