- Carl Ikeme thinks he can beat Leukemia like other footballers before him
- The goalkeeper was diagnosed with the disease during pre-season tests
- The 31-year-old is currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment in London
Super Eagles goalkeeper Carl Ikeme has assured Nigerians that he would be fit to come back and guard the sticks for the country at the 2018 World Cup.
The Super Eagles and Wolves goalkeeper was diagnosed after it was discovered during a blood test following his return to his club Wolverhampton Wanderers for pre-season training.
Leukaemia is a progressive disease in which the bone marrow and other blood-forming organs produce increased numbers that damage the immune system.
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A source who spoke to the Vanguard said Ikeme was looking to follow the footsteps of notable players who beat Leukemia and came back to play football.
Carl Ikeme is currently hospitalized and undergoing treatment. Photo: Carl Ikeme/Twitter
Daniel Akpeyi replaced the Super Eagles number one but endured a torrid time out as he conceded two goals against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in a Nations Cup qualifier.
Ikeme told those close to him that he was sure that he would come back to keep for Nigeria at 2018 World Cup in Russia.
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The source said: "He was looking hale and hearty and was in a good mood. He promised that he will be back to keep for Nigeria".
The 31-year-old is currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment in a London hospital.
NAIJ.com reported that Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr and NFF president Amaju Pinnick paid a visit to the goalkeeper in the hospital.
Meanwhile, you can see NAIJ.com's video of the Super Eagles training ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.