RANGERS have paid tribute to their former academy player Dylan Dykes after it was sadly revealed he has been diagnosed with cancer.
The 26-year-old currently players with West of Scotland Premier League giants Pollok.
The former junior side announced that Dykes started undergoing treatment last week.
A club statement, prior to tonight's Scottish Cup clash with Annan Athletic, reads: "For those of you who are able to attend the match tonight and for those who may be watching on television you will see during the warm-up that all of the Pollok players will be wearing tops with a public display of their support for teammate Dylan Dykes.
"Unfortunately, Dylan has recently been diagnosed with cancer. His treatment started in the week before last and, despite that, he was at the match the following Saturday supporting his teammates.
"Dylan continues to be a valued member of the team and we look forward to him, once again, stepping on to the pitch in the black and white.
"It’s a terrible reminder of the indiscriminate nature of cancer and there will be many others around the game tonight who have, are, or will be affected by cancer but for tonight, let’s all take a moment to wish Dylan, his family and friends well, as no one faces this alone.
"From everyone associated with the Pollok family our thoughts are with you Dylan."
His teammates did Dylan proud with a fantastic 4-3 victory over the League Two side on Monday evening. They will now face Ayr United in the next round.
Dykes came through the ranks at Ibrox, spending ten-years at the club.
He departed in 2016 as he signed for Ross County. He then had short spells at Morton and then Stenhousemuir before eventually joining Pollok this year.
Rangers led the tributes for their former player.
In a social media post, the club said: "We were saddened to hear the news about Dylan who was an Academy player at Rangers for more than 10 years.
"We have spoken to Dylan and his dad and are pleased to hear he is making good progress.
"Everyone at Rangers sends out best wishes to Dylan for a full and speedy recovery."
A Stenhousemuir spokesperson said: "We stand beside our friends at Pollok FC in their support for Dylan Dykes.
"Dylan made 15 appearances for The Warriors in 2019/20 and Dylan, his family and friends are very much in our thoughts at this time and we'll support any way that we can. Once a Warrior, always a Warrior."
