Bryan Robson in cancer battle

Manchester United have confirmed that former England captain Bryan Robson has undergone surgery for throat cancer.

Robson was in Bangkok when he had the operation on 3rd March and United have said specialists are optimistic about the chances of a full recovery.

"Bryan Robson underwent an operation to remove a tumour from his throat on 3rd March, 2011 in a hospital in Bangkok," a club statement read.

"The laboratory report revealed a cancerous tumour, which will need further treatment. The oncologist is confident that the condition is treatable.

"At this moment Bryan is fine to continue with his role as Thailand coach and his role as ambassador of Manchester United.

"Bryan and his family have requested that he can continue with his treatment in private and ask that their privacy is respected."

The former Manchester United skipper is currently combining his work as a United ambassador with coaching the Thailand national team.

Robson won 90 caps for his country, 65 as captain, despite a succession of major injuries and was dubbed Captain Marvel by the late great Sir Bobby Robson.

Sir Alex Ferguson was just as enthusiastic about Robson's contribution to the Old Trafford when he left United in 1994 having led the club to three FA Cups, the European Cup Winners' Cup and two Premier League titles.