Tottenham and England legend Graham Roberts reveals prostate cancer diagnosis

Roberts, capped six times by England during his playing days, explained that he has begun radiotherapy and brachytherapy as part of his battle against the disease. His message was accompanied by a fundraising appeal, with the ex-defender determined to use his own fight to generate awareness and support for Prostate Cancer UK.

Roberts wrote: "I'm undergoing radiotherapy treatment and brachytherapy for prostate cancer and would love to raise money for this charity. This October my daughter is walking 5km each day and I am going to try and do as much as I can as well. Please donate to this."

His public appeal was quickly amplified by Tottenham, who reposted his message with a rallying cry of support: “We’re all behind you, Robbo.”

While Roberts focuses on his treatment, his daughter Hollie has taken the fight to the streets. Writing on the Prostate Cancer UK website, Hollie confirmed she is walking five kilometres every day throughout October as part of the Prostate United campaign.

Hollie said: "My dad, Graham Roberts, is currently undergoing radiotherapy treatment and brachytherapy for prostate cancer.

"Prostate cancer kills one man every 45 minutes – that's half a football match. But it doesn't have to be this way. This October, I'm joining Prostate United by walking 5km every day with my fellow football fans to help save men's lives. Dad is also going to try and walk each week as well after his treatment. Sponsor me to help fund lifesaving research for men and their families affected by this disease. Thank you."

Between 1980 and 1986, Roberts made 278 appearances for Tottenham, becoming one of the most reliable figures of that era. His time in North London was decorated with silverware, including back-to-back FA Cup triumphs in 1981 and 1982. Arguably, his greatest night came in 1984 when he captained Spurs to victory in the UEFA Cup final against Anderlecht. Roberts scored a crucial equaliser that took the match into extra time, before calmly dispatching a penalty in the shootout that sealed European glory for the club.

Tottenham prepare for a demanding Premier League fixture away at West Ham United on September 13. But thoughts among the Spurs faithful will remain firmly with their former captain, the man who once lifted European silverware at White Hart Lane.