“Well mick at least he was big enough to admit his problem and get it sorted. Footballers do get paid alot of money and have to much time on there hands and thats were problems begin with gambling or others things. It seems to happen alot with players who play for london clubs, too much temptation. He's got out of that and his career and life are back on the up.”

“I'm afraid when in the public eye -on the money they get, the public consider it 'fair game' to rib 'em a little -character building.
If the odd jibe is enough to tip him over the edge and back in the gambling dens, then he'd have almost certainly be back in what ever is said or not said.
Reforming one's character I'm afraid doesn't give one automatic rights to 'priesthood'.
At the end of the day -the only difference to 'them and us' -is that they're rolling in it -whilst we can only sit and 'stare in disbelief at the huge amounts of money they get -to spend as they wish of course.
But no moanin' if they choose to blow it and expect us to bail 'em out.”

“give the guy a break man he's admited his problem and is getting it sorted. Going by his performances this season he's worth a rise in pay and a couples of bonuses”

“Probably asking for more money to pay off his gambling debts.”

“Another own goal Stoke?”