Don’t mess players around

Departing McLaughlin launches mental health broadside towards clubs

Departing Albion Rovers defender Scott McLaughlin is relieved to have had his future clarified by the Cliftonhill club – but says communication between management and players is vital for mental health welfare.

McLaughlin, 34, made 42 appearances for Rovers last season, but was told on Sunday his future lies elsewhere.

The veteran was kept in the dark for six weeks with regards to a potential new deal in Coatbridge, after the appointment of new manager John Brogan.

Before his future was ironed out, a tweet posted by McLaughlin on Saturday was backed by scores of professional players including Scotland international Robert Snodgrass and Airdrie legend Bryan Prunty.

He insisted “unprofessional treatment” of players by club hierarchies can be a trigger of mental health problems, especially in younger players.

With his future now resolved, McLaughlin told the Advertiser: “I’m pleased the tweet got a good reaction but it wasn’t about me, I wanted to highlight what seems to be a rife problem.

“I’m 34 now, and if somebody tells me they don’t want me in their squad, I can deal with that.

“But uncertainty can be a huge trigger for mental health problems, especially in younger players who are preparing for a future in the game.

“It needs addressed and regulations need to be there to make sure younger players aren’t affected by this kind of thing.

“A lot of emphasis these days is placed on mental health welfare and football should be no different.

“Young men and teens who are working hard for their future in the game shouldn’t have to put up with treatment like this as it could have a horrible effect on them.

“I’ve lost count of the amount of pros who have been in touch saying they can resonate with my tweet and have suffered themselves in the past.

“But a lot of people don’t realise footballers can be affected by this kind of thing because they associate it with glamour and money.

“Hopefully this has opened some eyes and makes people aware of what goes on.”

Dismayed Former Rovers left-back Scott McLaughlin has warned clubs about the mental health risks of keeping players hanging on