Sports stars rally behind Aaron over mental health fear
THE sporting world rallied around England footballer Aaron Lennon yesterday after it was revealed he was suffering from mental health problems.
The Everton star was detained under the Mental Health Act after being found beside a busy road on Sunday afternoon.
Lennon, 30, was reportedly spotted close to the M602 in Salford, Greater Manchester, when concerns were raised over his welfare.
Police are said to have negotiated with him for about 20 minutes before he was taken to hospital to be assessed. His condition was described as “precarious”.
A host of sporting greats yesterday took to social media to show their support.
Ex-Liverpool striker Stan Collymore, who has talked of his battle with depression, tweeted: “Thoughts and love with Aaron Lennon and his family right now. I know that place, and I know he’ll be fine with good support from us all.”
Boxer Frank Bruno, who has also suffered with mental health problems, wrote: “Thoughts are with Aaron Lennon today. Stay strong and as positive as possible, there is light at the end of tunnel. You will get through this.”
Rugby star Danny Cipriani wrote: “Thoughts and prayers with Aaron Lennon, lovely bloke! It is a difficult place to be. It’ll always get better.”
England cricket legend Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff tweeted: “Lots of love and wishes Aaron Lennon. Another cruel example of how mental illness can affect anybody. Get well soon.”
One-time Professional Footballers’ Association chairman Clarke Carlisle, who played alongside Lennon at Leeds – and attempted suicide in 2014 – wrote on Twitter: “Love and blessings to my old teammate Aaron Lennon. Nail this now and there’s plenty more left in the tank my friend.”
Everton FC said in a statement: “Thank you for all the kind messages for Aaron. We are supporting him through this and his family has appealed for privacy at this time.”
Ex-Everton star Andy Johnson, 36, has promised to donate 10p to charity for every retweet of his comment on Twitter – a pledge likely to cost him thousands of pounds. Johnson, who retired two years ago, met Lennon while playing for England.
The PFA, which has a dedicated 24/7 helpline as well as a nationwide network of counsellors for its members, said in a tweet: “Get well soon Aaron, we are all thinking of you and are here to offer our full support.”
Lennon, who earns £55,000 a week at Everton, began his career at Leeds United and in 2003 became the youngest player to play in the Premier League at that time.
He joined Tottenham Hotspur in 2005 and has been selected by England for two World Cups.
He last played for Everton in February, although he was in the squad for the March 18 home win over Hull.
Greater Manchester Police said in a statement: “Police were called to reports of concern for the welfare of a man. Officers attended and a 30-year-old man was detained under section 136 of the Mental Health Act and was taken to hospital for assessment.”
Alison Ward, head of mental health at Manchester-based Cartwright King solicitors said that, under the Mental Health Act, Lennon could be detained for up to 28 days and be treated against his wishes. However, he could also appeal if he disagreed with the detention or the treatment.