Spanish media has confirmed the news concerning the former Spain Under-19 international who was diagnosed with cancer in 2011 after undergoing a routine check-up on a back problem.

Roque hadsurgery to remove the tumour in May that year after Betis raised funds to pay for the defender's treatment by selling wrist-bands with the player's name written on them.

Roque was on Liverpool's books between 2005 and 2009, making just one official appearance for the Reds' first team, during a 3-2 Champions League victory against Galatasaray in December 2006.

After being released by the English club Roque joined Betis, where he made 14 competitive appearances in 2010-11 before being forced to halt his career after the tumour was discovered.