Ipswich Town's under-23s coach Kieron Dyer has been diagnosed with a rare liver condition and says he will need a liver transplant.
Dyer, who made more than 100 appearances for the Blues, has primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a disease that attacks the bile ducts.
The condition leads to the bile ducts inside and outside the liver progressively decreasing in size due to inflammation and scarring, according to the British Liver Trust.
Dyer, 42, has been managing problems with his liver for the last few years and he was taken to hospital earlier this week for tests.
He told the Ipswich Town website: "Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with a condition of the liver a couple of years ago, that would lead to me one day needing a transplant.
"Over the next week, test results will confirm when I need to go through this procedure.
"I see myself as a very positive person that will overcome this minor setback.
"I’m very grateful to the club, the supporters and the general public for their messages of support over the past week.
"I would like to ask everyone now to respect my privacy, and my family’s privacy."
An Ipswich Town statement said: "The best wishes of everyone at Ipswich Town Football Club remain with Kieron and his family.
"We reiterate our request that everyone respects Kieron’s wishes in privacy for him and his family."
Messages of goodwill began flooding in on social media after the club confirmed Dyer's condition.
One fan said: "Best wishes Kieron. There’s a lot of love, respect and positive energy for you from huge numbers of people. Onwards and upwards."
Another added: "Best wishes to a club legend. I have no doubt you will fight your way through this — can’t wait to see you back at Portman Road."
The British Liver Trust says common early symptoms of PSC include tiredness and abdominal discomfort, with episodes of fever and jaundice possible in later stages.
Liver transplants can be recommended when a patient's symptoms can no longer be controlled with medical treatment.
Dyer joined his hometown side Ipswich as a 17-year-old and made his first-team debut in 1996, with his performances earning him a £6million move to Newcastle United three years later.
The midfielder, who earned 33 caps for England, re-signed for the Blues on a month-long emergency loan deal in 2011, appearing four times.
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