TIME OUT FOR CELT STAR LEIGH
Hoops hero takes break from the game ‘to deal with mental health problems’
CELTIC striker Leigh Griffiths will be absent from all games for the foreseeable future as he takes time out to battle personal problems.
Manager Brendan Rodgers said Leigh had the full backing of the club as he takes an extended break from the game.
FAMILY and friends have rallied round Celtic and Scotland star Leigh Griffiths who is “taking time out of football” to battle personal problems.
Club manager Brendan Rodgers announced on Wednesday the former Hibs and Wolves hitman, 28, would be out for an extended period as he seeks “professional help” for what are understood to be ongoing mental health problems.
Rodgers said he has a strong relationship with the player, and that all at the Parkhead club will do everything they can to help him get back to full health.
Last night, brother Aaron Griffiths, posted on Twitter: “Wishing my brother the very best of luck and hope to see him back on the pitch Celtic with a smile on his face love you bro stay strong and keep chin up.”
Griffiths’ girlfriend Caitlyn Melville earlier updated her profile picture on social media to include the Scotland striker.
Rodgers said: “He’s reached a point where it’s a struggle for him.
“We are going to give him all the professional help he needs to get him back in a good place.
“He’s a great guy but football and life is tough for him right now. We want to help him with that and we’ll let you know when he’s back. I’m very close with him. We have a strong relationship but he’s had number of issues outside of football.
“The most important thing for managers and coaches is the welfare of players. It’s no longer a weakness to talk now. He has all of our support – the team, the staff and the supporters.”
The striker’s former clubs took to social media to share messages of support for the player.
Livingston, where Griffiths made his debut at just 16-years-old, said: “Take the time you need to get back to a happier place Leigh – there’s always a seat with your name on it here.”
While Hibernian, who received the 28-year-old on loan in 2011, said: “We’re all with you, Leigh.”
It was widely reported yesterday that Griffiths was struggling with a gambling problem – reports denied by Celtic.
The ex-Dundee and Livingston forward has suffered a number of injuries this season and has struggled for game time.
Griffiths was also reported to be disappointed to have been left out of the Scotland side for the UEFA Nations League match against Albania in September.
The story also broke as the Celtic striker and former partner Linzi McKenzie posted a celebratory message for their daughter’s first birthday.