Weareall hereforyou

Messages of support came from far and wide following Brian Rice’s admission of ongoing struggles with a gambling addiction .

The Hamilton Accies head coach has received letters, texts and an outpouring of encouragement on social media from fans, colleagues and clubs across the UK.

Among those to reach out to Rice are Rangers boss Steven Gerard, former Celtic star John Hartson, St Mirren boss Jim Goodwin, Hearts, Celtic and Nottingham Forest, where Rice plied his career from 1985 to 1991.

Rivals Motherwell also spoke out, with club chief executive Alan Burrows saying: “Want to wish Chipper (Brian Rice) all the very best. One of the top guys in the game without any doubt.

“He’s at a club with a fantastic support network in terms of addiction recovery, who’ll get him back on track.”

Steven Gerard said: “I admire how honest Brian has been, he’s always been a top guy with me and has the support of everyone at Rangers.”

Ex-well player Kevin Twaddle, who lost more than £1million in his career, praised Rice for going public and knows his actions can and will help others.

He said: “I know it sounds dramatic but Brian coming out like this could save somebody’s life.

“There could be somebody reading what has happened to Brian and it might be enough to give them the jolt they need to get help themselves.

“Brian has done something so powerful and he probably won’t realise what he has done. It’s the most courageous thing anyone can do.”

Central Scotland MSP Monica Lennon also hailed Rice’s bravery and said: “Brian Rice has taken a brave step towards getting help and I send my best wishes to him and everyone at Hamilton Accies.

“We need all clubs to lead by example and show a duty of care for their players, staff and fans.”