BUDGE OFFERS FULL SUPPORT

HEARTS owner Ann Budge has pledged the club’s full backing to Kyle Lafferty after he opened up about his battle with gambling addiction.

The former Rangers striker has revealed his struggle with gambling which saw him hit with a £23,000 fine from the FA last August after placing a bet on two Spanish football matches.

A statement from Budge on Hearts’ club website praised Lafferty for his bravery in going public with the issue.

And she insists the Northern Ireland star will be given all the help he needs after coming clean about his illness when he arrived from Norwich in the summer.

Budge said: “On behalf of everyone at Hearts, I would like to formally record our total support for Kyle Lafferty as he moves forward to deal with his acknowledged addiction to gambling.

“Kyle took the enormously brave step of coming to the club and asking for help.

“It is a testament to the great footballer and character he is that he has in no way allowed his personal battle to affect his performance. Kyle will continue to train and play as normal.”

Budge believes Hearts fans can now play a part in helping Lafferty overcome his demons.

She said: “They have taken Kyle to their hearts. I have no doubt they will continue to back him as we all strive to help him deal with this enormous personal problem.”