8 September 2010 Last updated at 05:54 ET

Ex-Rangers star Brian Laudrup has cancer

Ex-Rangers player Brian Laudrup has been diagnosed with cancer

Former Rangers and Chelsea footballer Brian Laudrup has been diagnosed with cancer.

The 41-year-old Dane, who played for the Glasgow team from 1994 to 1998, is suffering from a mild form of lymphoma.

The footballer scored 45 goals in his 151 appearances for the club, winning three Championships, a Scottish Cup and a League Cup.

A statement on the Rangers website said: "Everyone at Rangers Football Club sends their best wishes to Brian."

Optimistic reports

Speaking on Danish channel TV3, where he works as a commentator, he said he was determined to beat the illness.

He told the channel: "I am obviously shocked by the diagnosis, but also know that there is now a tough battle ahead of me - a battle I will win.

"Fortunately, I have had very optimistic reports from doctors to support me."

The former Bayern Munich, Fiorentina, Rangers, Chelsea and Ajax star said he wanted to spend time with his family to get over the shock.

Laudrup was named Danish player of the year on four occasions.