Newcastle Jets young gun receives sad cancer diagnosis

The Newcastle Jets have confirmed Johnny Koutroumbis will be unavailable for an extended period of time due to illness relating to cancer.

The 20-year-old defender has been diagnosed with Stage 1 Thyroid Cancer and has already undergone surgery.

According to the statement released by the A-League club, Koutroumbis will now begin further treatment – and his condition is “considered to be very good”, given it was discovered early.

Joel Griffiths, Football Operations Manager said he would receive the full support of the club.

“Johnny has a wonderful family who are right behind him, but our entire Club and the football community will also be with him every step of the way,” Griffiths said.

“We’ve been advised the prognosis is good and this is very treatable, especially given this has been caught so early.

“Johnny originally reported a lump at the base of his neck to Nathan Renwick [Club Physiotherapist] and he was sent for scans.”

Fans and fellow players have sent messages of support to Koutroumbis on social media:

“Early intervention in these scenarios is so important, it’s great that this was able to be found and Johnny can now receive the treatment he needs,” Griffiths continued.

“We won’t be placing any timeframes on his recovery at this point, we’re just wanting to make sure he gets all the treatment and support he requires.”