16 January 2024 , 16:53
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Grimsby Town midfielder Callum Ainley has undergone surgery after being diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
A club statement read: "Grimsby Town Football Club is saddened to announce that midfielder Callum Ainley was recently diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
"The 26 year-old, who joined the Mariners from Crewe Alexandra in the summer, has undergone surgery and will now take some time at home to recover with a view to returning to training mid-late February.
"Callum has shown great strength of character since he received the news and he is currently being supported by the club to ensure he has everything he needs. We would like to ask supporters and the media to respect his privacy at this time. We wish Callum a speedy recovery. We hope to see him back in a black and white shirt very soon."
Callum Ainley began his career with Crewe Alexandra (Pete Norton/Getty Images)Ainley's former club, Crewe Alexandra, tweeted: "We are all with you, @Callum_Ainley." The English Football League wrote: "Wishing you all the very best in your recovery, Callum".
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Ainley began his career with Crewe, coming through the academy to make 278 appearances for the club. He signed a one-year contract with Grimsby in September and has made seven appearances as a substitute so far for the League Two side.
He has not featured since December 16, when he came off the bench for the final three minutes of a 1-1 draw against Newport County. Grimsby are 19th in League Two, nine points above the relegation zone.