Premier League star reveals gambling battle

Stoke City midfielder Matthew Etherington has revealed that he is taking steps towards managing his gambling addiction after going public on his personal battle.
 
The former West Ham United player has been in fine form in recent weeks helping Tony Pulis’ side climb the Premier League table and progress to the FA Cup fifth round at the expense of Arsenal.
 
Speaking about his gambling problem and the steps taken to keep it in check, the 28-year-old revealed:

"I've never really spoken about it, but I go twice a week to Gambling Anonymous in Birmingham. I'll do that for the rest of my life.

"You are just meeting like-minded people and you talk about things that help keep you off gambling. It has been a big help.

"I had to do something about it - and I've done that. Now I'd like to get on with my life. I would be the first to admit I had problems with gambling and I never hide that fact.

"My problems had been well documented and I would like to think they are long behind me now. I've got over that and come out the other side."