Carlton AFL co-captain Sam Docherty has undergone surgery for a malignant testicular tumour.

Docherty recently discovered a cancerous lump and after having surgery on Friday, is expected to make a full recovery.

The 27-year-old emphasised the importance of health checks and seeking prompt medical advice, while he expected to return to Carlton’s training within six weeks.

“Obviously hearing the initial diagnosis was a shock, however I feel grateful to have got onto it straight away,” Docherty said.

“Having now had the surgery, I’m grateful to hear that I’m expected to make a full recovery and will be able to resume training in four to six weeks’ time.

“Talking about our health and wellbeing and ensuring we get regular checks is so important, and I hope to use this as a reminder for others to look after themselves and also to support others who may be going through similar experiences.”

Several AFL players have been diagnosed with testicular cancer in recent years – including Docherty’s former Carlton teammate Sam Rowe, who had an operation to remove a lump before undergoing chemotherapy in 2012.

GWS forward Jesse Hogan had a tumour removed while at Melbourne in 2017 and Port Adelaide star Robbie Gray had surgery and underwent a short course of precautionary chemotherapy in October that year.