Doctors plan to begin chemotherapy for former international footballer John Hartson this week.

The ex-Arsenal and Celtic striker was transferred from a hospital critical care unit last night after progress in his treatment.

Hartson, 34, has been diagnosed with testicular cancer that has spread to his brain.

He was admitted to hospital in his home city of Swansea last month where he underwent emergency surgery and it was discovered the cancer had spread to his lungs.

In a statement, Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University NHS Trust said: "Following continued progress, John Hartson was transferred from the critical care unit at Morriston Hospital yesterday evening.
"He is now under the care of our cancer team at Singleton Hospital.

"If progress continues, we are planning to begin his chemotherapy treatment this week."

The trust appealed to fans not to phone or turn up at the hospital to enquire about his health.

His family last week revealed how the soccer star had been given a boost by messages of support from troops in Afghanistan and US Marines.

In a statement they said: "We would like to thank all the staff at Morriston for their help and support, as well as the ambulance staff who transferred John at the weekend.

"We are now focusing on helping John in the next stage of his treatment."