A former Crewe Alex academy graduate midfielder and 2019-20 promotion winner, has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer.

Callum Ainley, who plays for Grimsby Town in League Two, left Crewe after 17 years last summer.

The 26-year-old who joined Crewe at the age of eight, made 278 appearances for The Railwaymen.

Callum Ainley joined Crewe at the age of eight and made 278 appearances for The Railwaymen (Crewe Alex).

Ainley now plays The Mariners under the leadership of former Alex manager, David Artell, who guided the club to promotion in 2020.

On January 16, Grimsby confirmed Ainley has undergone surgery for cancer and is recovering at home.

The club hope Ainley will be able to return to training in mid to late February.

A Grimsby Town FC statement read: "Grimsby Town Football Club is saddened to announce 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.

Callum Ainley currently plays for former Crewe Alex manager, David Artell, at Grimsby Town (Crewe Alex).

"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."

READ MORE: Crewe college invests in new 'high-quality' £150k hospital ward.

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