Cancer-stricken John Hartson in critical condition

Testicular cancer-stricken former footballer John Hartson received a message of support from Tour de France star Lance Armstrong, who survived the disease himself.

Writing on his Twitter site, Armstrong wrote: "My thoughts go out to John Hartson. Livestrong, John!

"We're pulling for you! Folks, hold him in your thoughts and prayers please."

It was revealed earlier this week that 34-year-old Hartson was diagnosed with testicular cancer, which had spread to his brain.

He remains in a critical but stable condition after undergoing emergency neurosurgery to relieve pressure on his brain, a spokesman for Morriston hospital in Hartson's home town of Swansea said today.

Doctors at the hospital discovered the disease in his lungs as well.

He is now receiving round-the-clock care following the emergency procedure.

Hartson's family said in a statement on Wednesday: "His partner Sarah, mum, dad, three children, brother, two sisters and very close friends are all continuing to support John in any way we can."

The former Wales, Celtic, Arsenal and West Ham striker attended Swansea's Singleton Hospital on Friday with symptoms of testicular cancer. Tests were then carried out to establish a full picture of his diagnosis.

He was transferred to the larger Morriston hospital on Tuesday evening when his condition worsened.

Dr Gianfilippo Bertelli, a consultant medical oncologist, said earlier this week that a course of radiotherapy and chemotherapy would be started as soon as possible and that he could foresee many months of treatment.

The hospital said this morning Hartson's condition remained unchanged.