The former Manchester United and England captain, Bryan Robson, is battling throat cancer.
Robson, 54, who is currently Thailand’s national team manager, underwent an operation to remove a tumour from his throat on 3 March in a Bangkok hospital, a United spokesman confirmed.
A laboratory report revealed a cancerous tumour that will need further treatment, according to the Manchester Evening News.
The spokesman added that surgeons were ‘confident’ the condition could be treated.
They added: ‘At this moment, Bryan is fine to continue with his role as Thailand coach and his role as ambassador of Manchester United.
‘Bryan and family have requested that he can continue with his treatment in private and ask that their privacy is respected.’
Robson, a hero at Old Trafford, joined United in 1981, making 345 appearances and helping the club to two Premier League titles, three FA Cups and the European Cup Winners’ Cup.