Middlesbrough have revealed that academy player Anthony Renton has been diagnosed with leukaemia.

The 18-year-old, who penned a professional contract with the Championship club in April 2017, will spend the next 30 days at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle as his treatment programme begins.

"The thoughts and support of everyone at the Boro are with one of our academy players who has been diagnosed with Leukemia," read a statement on the club's official website.

"As a club we have been right behind Anthony and the family offering logistical and moral support and as everyone, Anthony especially, comes to terms with the situation the need for continued support from everyone is obvious."

Meanwhile, Middlesbrough's head coach Garry Monk added: "We were all saddened and shocked to the hear news about Anthony, but he's got our full support and we'll be with him every step of the way."

Renton has been with Middlesbrough since Under-13 level.