Football stars across the country have rallied around Cheltenham striker Eliot Richards after the League Two club confirmed he has been diagnosed with testicular cancer . The 23-year-old , who has made 24 appearances for the Robins this season and played as recently as March 17 , will undergo surgery early next week , with the club hopeful that their player will make a full recovery . A club statement read : 'The club will of course ensure that every assistance is offered to Eliot and his family to help them through this difficult time . Cheltenham striker Eliot Richards has been diagnosed with testicular cancer at the age of 23 . Richards played for Cheltenham as recently as March 17 and will undergo surgery early next week . Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland is one of a number of players to tweet his support to Richards . Former England and Liverpool man Stephen Warnock also sent Richards his best wishes . 'In due course we expect Eliot to make a full recovery . In the meantime we know that all Cheltenham supporters will want to join us in wishing Eliot and his family well in the days and weeks ahead . ' Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland was one of a number of players to tweet his best wishes to Richards , writing : 'Thoughts and well wishes go out to Eliot Richards and his family . ' Former England defender Stephen Warnock tweeted : 'Sad news about Eliot Richards . Wishing him a full recovery . ' Cheltenham are hopeful that Richards ( right ) will be able to make a full recovery from cancer . Joe Thompson , a player with Bury who has battled cancer , was quick to support Richards . Cheltenham striker Richards acknowledged the messages he has received on his own Twitter account . Joe Thompson , a midfielder for Bury who has battled cancer himself , said : 'Thoughts are with @ Eliot_Richards . The @ tranmererovers boys tell me your a top guy , so stay positive and you 'll beat it # BallsToCancer . ' Richards responded to the support on his Twitter account , saying : 'Thanks for all the kind messages , staying really strong . '
Eliot Richards , March 17 , has been diagnosed with testicular cancer . The Cheltenham striker played as recently as 23 for his team . Jack Butland and Stephen Warnock have tweeted support to Richards .