Former West Brom striker Horsfield has been forced to retire from the game after being diagnosed with testicular cancer - and Stubbs has spoken out after his own experience of the disease.

Stubbs overcame the illness when he was playing for Celtic before moving to Everton, where he is now on the coaching staff, and said: "I'd like to wish Geoff and his family all the very best and I know exactly how he will be feeling right now."

The 34-year-old Horsfield, who also played for Birmingham and Fulham, remains positive about the future and has stated he would like to play again, even at non-league level.

And his strength of character draws admiration from Stubbs, who added: "It's a devastating blow for anyone, but there is a way through it.

"I've played against Geoff a few times and he's the sort of character that will face this head on.

"I hope everything goes to plan and the success rate is high these days. It's sad that it's ended his professional career, but, like myself, I'm sure Geoff is looking at the bigger picture."