Livingston goalkeeper diagnosed with testicular cancer aged 20

Livingston goalkeeper Daniel Barden has been diagnosed with testicular cancer.

The 20-year-old, who is on loan from English Premier League side Norwich City, is undergoing treatment and spend time away from football.

Barden thanked Norwich manager Daniel Farke and Livingston boss David Martindale for their support in a statement released on Monday.

He said: “It has been a very difficult and challenging period, but the support of my family, friends and colleagues has helped get me through the last few weeks.

“I can’t thank the medical departments at both Norwich and Livingston enough, as well as everyone at the Royal Marsden Hospital.

“The speed at which everything has moved has been crazy, but everyone has been absolutely brilliant with me. Both Daniel Farke and the Livingston manager, David Martindale, have also been very supportive.

Livingston FC can confirm that goalkeeper Daniel Barden has been diagnosed with testicular cancer.

After the initial diagnosis, Dan has since undergone follow up tests and will continue with a closely monitored treatment programme over the coming period.https://t.co/in5PQophIK pic.twitter.com/CDNdYn7zHy
— Livingston FC (@LiviFCOfficial) October 18, 2021

“The initial diagnosis was a real shock for me, but the positive thing is that we’ve caught it early and the prognosis and next steps have all been positive.

“I’m optimistic and have a positive mindset. I’m confident that I’ll be able to beat it and that I’ll be back out there doing what I love soon.

“I’d like to thank everyone around me for their support. I know that the coming period will be challenging and would ask for privacy for me and my family at this stage. Where possible, I’ll do what I can to update on my progress.”

Barden, who has represented Wales at U-19 and U-21 level, moved to West Lothian on loan earlier this year.

Norwich City sporting director Stuart Webber said: “Everyone at Norwich City wishes Dan a speedy recovery. Our love and thoughts are with him and his family as he starts this latest challenge in his life.

“Dan is part of our family and we look out for our own. He knows we are with him every step of the way.

“The care and attention Dan has had so far has been top class. We thank everyone who has looked out for him and we are grateful for Livingston for acting on Dan’s symptoms and alerting us.”

Everyone at the club wishes Dan the very best during his treatment.

Stay strong, Dan! 👊 #NCFC pic.twitter.com/zVXYi6nAiR
— Norwich City FC (@NorwichCityFC) October 18, 2021

“We can’t wait to welcome Dan back to Carrow Road and the Lotus Training Centre.

“It goes without saying but we give Dan our full love, support and best wishes in his recovery and will assist where we can at every step of the way.”