Former Sunderland and Ipswich forward Marcus Stewart has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
The diagnosis for the 49-year-old, who is currently head of player development at National League club Yeovil, came after 12 months of testing, a joint statement from Yeovil and the Professional Footballers' Association confirmed on Thursday.
Stewart, who also played for the Glovers as well as Bristol Rovers, Bristol City, Huddersfield, Preston and Exeter, said: 'I would like to take the opportunity to thank those closest to me for their unwavering support since my recent diagnosis.
'As I take the time to adjust, my intention is to continue to enjoy my work in football and spend time with my family.