Big John's joy at being told he is winning his battle against cancer

FORMER soccer international John Hartson today spoke of his relief at being told cancer has been virtually eradicated from his body.

The Swansea-born star described hearing the news that he was winning his battle against the disease was "my brightest day for a long time".

The ex-Arsenal and Celtic striker was diagnosed in July with testicular cancer that had spread to his brain.

He was admitted to hospital in Swansea where he underwent emergency surgery and it was discovered the cancer had spread to his lungs.

He was released from hospital in August after completing the first phase of his chemotherapy treatment.

Hartson, 34, said today: "We've all been through so much and to get the news from the doctors that the cancer is going from me is fantastic.

"I would like to thank every single person that has taken the time to either write to me, phone me or leave a message online, your ongoing support is helping me through the battle of my life and is keeping Sarah and the kids upbeat in such terrifying circumstances.

"I'm not out of the woods yet, though this is my brightest day for a long time."

Hartson's agent Mark Brodie said: "John still has an arduous journey ahead to complete recovery and requires extensive surgery to remove 'abnormal masses' in his lung and brain over the forthcoming months, but this latest news is a huge boost."

He said well-wishers including cyclist and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong, and Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, had kept him fighting.