Last updated on .From the section Football

Juan Carlos Garcia played at the 2014 World Cup for Honduras

Wigan Athletic have confirmed that Honduras full-back Juan Carlos Garcia has been diagnosed with leukaemia.

The 26-year-old returned to the Latics last week from his loan spell at Spanish side Tenerife with what the club called "a blood disorder".

Garcia joined Wigan in July 2013 on a free transfer but his only appearance came in the League Cup last season.

"I went in to see Juan Carlos and he was incredibly upbeat and his spirits were strong," said boss Malky Mackay.

What is leukaemia? Leukaemia is cancer of the white blood cells. Symptoms include pale skin, tiredness, breathlessness and susceptibility to infection. On average 2,500 adults are diagnosed with acute leukaemia in the UK each year, according to Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research

"He's going to fight this and make sure he gets through this for the sake of his wife and kids. Everybody at the club is wishing him all the best as I'm sure that all our fans are.

"It's something that is obviously a real blow for Juan Carlos' family and everybody connected with the football club. We're going to make sure that he gets the best care possible."