The Highs of Football and Lows of Addiction

Dean Sturridge's football career was the stuff of dreams - Premier League appearances for Derby County, Leicester City, and Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Birmingham-born striker became Derby's record Premier League goalscorer, living the life most young players aspire to.

"When I couldn't play football because of injury, I'd be sat on my settee. I'd have boredom, I'd have time – and I'd have the money. That's when the bets escalated and I was totally out of control," Sturridge reflects.

The Spiral of Addiction

Sturridge's gambling problem began in youth but intensified with his professional success:

• Lost his first signing-on fee within hours
• Routinely drained bank accounts daily
• Borrowed money from teammates
• Missed family moments while placing bets

"I'd be going from the bookie to the bank... writing cheques out and going into the branch, then withdrawing money. By the end of the day you see nil in your account," he confesses.

Road to Recovery

After hitting rock bottom when his wife discovered his addiction, Sturridge attended Gamblers Anonymous within 24 hours. Now 51 and five years into recovery, he serves as an ambassador for Gordon Moody, a gambling support charity.

"Walking through those doors was the catalyst for understanding myself," says Sturridge. "As a gambler, you shut off your emotions - I did that as a sportsman too."

Helping the Next Generation

Now working as a football agent, Sturridge emphasizes:

• Modern players need better support systems
• Organizations must educate young athletes
• His grandson motivates his continued recovery

"It's important for people like myself to go into schools and football clubs to help them on their journey," he states.

For those affected by gambling addiction, contact Gordon Moody or similar support organizations.