Former Premier League defender Jose Enrique said he has undergone surgery to remove a brain tumour.
Jose Enrique, 32, wrote on Instagram that he is now in recovery after discovering the tumour around a month ago.
"Sorry I haven't been around much," he wrote. "It has been the toughest few weeks of my life.
"Within the space of one month I have found out the news that I have a rare brain tumour and had surgery to have it removed. I am now in recovery and so thankful. Life is too precious."
Jose Enrique, who joined Liverpool in 2011 and left for Real Zaragoza in 2016, also played for Celta Vigo, Villarreal and Newcastle United before retiring in September at 31 because of persistent troubles with his knee.
He joined the agency founded by his brother after his career ended, and he told Marca he was meeting with Brighton & Hove Albion manager Chris Hughton to discuss a player when he felt a significant headache.
He went to hospital, where he was diagnosed with a chordoma, a soft-tissue tumour located behind one of his eyes. The surgery took nine hours, Jose Enrique said, and he will begin radiation therapy on July 26.
"The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool Football Club are with Jose Enrique after the player revealed he has undergone surgery on a brain tumour," the club said in a statement.
"Everyone at Liverpool FC wishes him a full and speedy recovery and we look forward to seeing him back at Anfield again soon. You'll never walk alone, Jose."
