Cardiff City supporters have come together en masse to wish club icon Sol Bamba their well wishes after the club revealed he has been diagnosed with cancer.
In a statement which has shocked Bluebirds supporters, the club revealed the devastating news that Bamba has non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
He is currently undergoing a course of chemotherapy and the club said he is tackling the treatment in "typically positive spirits".
The club also asked for any messages of support to be sent directly via email to club@cardiffcityfc.co.uk. However, supporters wasted no time in expressing their well wishes on social media for a man so dearly loved by everyone attached to the club..
It did not take long for Bamba, who has been at the club for four and a half years, to endear himself to Bluebirds fans. He plays with a passion so adored in this corner of the world and his prowess as a defender formed the cornerstone of a rock-solid defence under Neil Warnock.
The Ivorian, who turns 36 on Wednesday, was an everpresent in Cardiff City's promotion campaign and one of the stars of their top-flight campaign.
His effervescent and bubbly character also helped win over the entirety of the Bluebirds fan base and it is no surprise to see the swathes of supporters get behind him following this devastating news.
"We’re all with you, Sol!," wrote fan account CCFC fans alongside three blue hearts.
Elliot Cantor wrote: "Horrific news, Get well soon @Sol14Bamba."
Joshua Watson wrote: "Us @CardiffCityFC fans and I’m sure the football world is with you all the way on this one @Sol14Bamba you got this."
Fan account Bluebirds Past also said: "Absolutely awful news. Everyone is with you big man."
Account Ninian Opinion wrote: "All the best Sol, you’re a hero at this club."
Premier Bluebirds Group said: "Shocking News. Best wishes to you @Sol14Bamba and yours. In everyone's thoughts big man. You can beat this."
While Josh Morrill wrote: "All behind you Sol."
Former Bluebirds defender Andy Legg reacted to the news by writing: "Sol I’m so shocked to hear this news and I am saddened by it. But I know how strong you are as a person and I know you will get through this battle. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. You have my number ring if you need to talk Be strong."
Cardiff board member Steve Borley said: "Our prayers are with Sol and his family at this time and wish him a speedy recovery."
Broadcaster and Cardiff City fan Jason Mohammad: "Praying for you brother."
Admired by all in football, Leeds United, Swansea City, Leicester City, Derby County, Bournemouth and Coventry City are among just some of the clubs to send their regards, too.
