NEWCASTLE UNITED midfielder Jonas Gutierrez has revealed he is battling testicular cancer.

In an interview in his native Argentina, the midfielder said he has had a testicle removed after discovering a tumour.

The 31-year-old, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Norwich City, is now recovering in his homeland after undergoing chemotherapy.

In an interview with Argentine television station TyC Sports he said: “I detected a tumour in a testicle. When I confirmed the cancer, I went home crying.

“I came here and I assumed the costs despite having a contract with Newcastle. Money is not important. What is important is the health. I had to start chemotherapy.

“I had the operation in Argentina, I removed the left testicle. I returned to England and Newcastle told me to leave.”

After being deluged with messages from fans, Gutierrez tweeted: "Thanks for all the messages of support. Always looking ahead ."