...By Larry John for TDPel Media.
Former Premier League defender Steven Caulker recently spoke about his battle with gambling and alcohol addiction during a recent appearance on the Undr the Cosh podcast.
Caulker recounted an incident when he was on loan at Swansea City during the 2011/12 season, where he and Leroy Lita had a drunken altercation that was broken up by manager Brendan Rodgers in Tenerife.
Caulker admitted that he struggled with addiction throughout his early career, which he initially believed was limited to a drinking problem.
The former defender recalled how he had once thought that he was not an alcoholic because he had attended Gamblers Anonymous during his time in rehab, and had not gone to Alcoholics Anonymous.
Brendan Rodgers’ Intervention
Caulker admitted that Rodgers was the first to identify his issues, and confronted him about his behaviour upon returning to Wales after the Tenerife incident.
The defender recounted the conversation with Rodgers, who expressed his concern over Caulker’s drinking habits and erratic behaviour.
Caulker’s Addiction Battle
Caulker acknowledged that he struggled to come to terms with the severity of his addiction and was initially unaware that it was a problem.
He only realised that he had an issue with alcohol when he was 24 years old, after undergoing rehab for his gambling addiction.
Help is Available
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and needs to talk, the Samaritans helpline is available 24/7 and offers free, confidential support.
The helpline number is 116 123, and you can also find your local branch online.
