The Newcastle Jets can confirm that defender, Johnny Koutroumbis will be unavailable for an extended period due to illness.

Koutroumbis has been diagnosed with Stage 1 Thyroid Cancer and underwent surgery on Monday, and will now begin further treatment under the close supervision of his surgeon and the Club’s Medical Team.

The prognosis on Koutroumbis’ condition is considered to be very good, given it was discovered so early.

Football Operations Manager, Joel Griffiths said that Koutroumbis would be fully supported by the Club and the PFA.

“Johnny has a wonderful family who are right behind him, but our entire Club and the football community will also be with him every step of the way,” Griffiths said.

“We’ve been advised the prognosis is good and this is very treatable, especially given this has been caught so early.

“Johnny originally reported a lump at the base of his neck to Nathan Renwick [Club Physiotherapist] and he was sent for scans.

“Early intervention in these scenarios is so important, it’s great that this was able to be found and Johnny can now receive the treatment he needs.

“We won’t be placing any timeframes on his recovery at this point, we’re just wanting to make sure he gets all the treatment and support he requires.”