Griffiths offers thanks for support and says he will come back ‘better and stronger’

cCeltic striker Leigh Griffiths has assured fans he is doing everything he can to return to action a “better and stronger person”.

Griffiths thanked wellwishers for their support after manager Brendan Rodgers announced on Wednesday that the 28-yearold was taking time out of football to deal with ongoing off-field issues.

The Scotland international said in a statement on his club’s website: “I just wanted to thank everyone at the club and so many Celtic fans and other people who have sent me such kind and powerful messages of support. I thank you all sincerely and want to let you know I’m doing all I can to come back as soon as possible, a better and stronger person.”

Support has come in from across football, including some of Griffiths’ former clubs.

Livingston told Griffiths to “take the time you need to get back to a happier place – there’s always a seat with your name on it here”, while Hibernian stated: “We’re all with you, Leigh.”

Rodgers revealed Celtic were seeking professional help for Griffiths and PFA Scotland chief executive Fraser Wishart reminded players that assistance was close at hand for anybody who was struggling.

Wishart told Sky Sports News: “In recent years we’ve had a number of players who have come forward with all sorts of issues, to do with mental health, to do with gambling and to do with other addictions. “What it shows is that football players are not immune to the issues and troubles that people face every day.

“We recognised that a number of years ago and we’ve put in place a very robust support network for