He was called the new George Best due to his addiction to women and drugs and ended up advising Rooney

Keith Gillespie, a former Northern Ireland international who graced the Premier League for 11 seasons with clubs like Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Blackburn Rovers, has bravely opened up about his devastating gambling addiction in an article for the Daily Mail. His story is a cautionary tale, highlighting the insidious relationship between sports betting and football, and the devastating consequences it can have on individuals.

A Steep Price to Pay

Gillespie's descent into the depths of gambling addiction began in 1995, when he lost a staggering £55,000 in a single afternoon placing bets over the phone. "I should have realised at that moment... but I didn't learn my lesson. The next day I lost another £17,000," Gillespie confessed.

This marked the beginning of a long and painful journey, filled with countless moments where Gillespie knew he needed to stop, but couldn't. His addiction spiralled out of control, leading to financial ruin, personal turmoil, and ultimately, bankruptcy in 2010.

A Familiar Story

Gillespie's story is not unique. Many athletes, particularly footballers, are drawn to the allure of sports betting, often due to their competitive nature and the easy access to online gambling platforms. However, what starts as a bit of fun can quickly turn into a destructive addiction, with devastating consequences.

Gillespie's experience is a stark reminder that even professional athletes, with their high salaries and privileged lifestyles, are not immune to the clutches of addiction. It can happen to anyone, regardless of their background or status.

A Warning to Rooney

In a candid open letter to Wayne Rooney published in The Sun in 2019, Gillespie shared his own experiences, warning the younger footballer about the dangers of gambling and the importance of seeking help.

"I was caught in bed with women, I lost £7 million of my fortune (I was declared bankrupt in 2010) and I got divorced... don't make the same mistakes," Gillespie wrote to Rooney.

His message was clear: learn from my mistakes, don't let gambling ruin your life.

The Need for Change

Gillespie's story is a powerful indictment of the close relationship between football and gambling. He argues that the constant exposure to betting advertisements, particularly during televised matches, normalizes gambling and makes it seem harmless.

He believes that football authorities need to take a stronger stance against gambling and do more to protect players from the dangers of addiction. He also calls for greater awareness and education about the risks of gambling, particularly for young people.

A Call for Help

Gillespie's story is not just a personal tragedy; it is a call to action. He hopes that by sharing his experiences, he can help others who are struggling with gambling addiction.

He urges anyone who is concerned about their gambling habits to seek help and support. There are resources available, and it is possible to overcome addiction with the right treatment and support.

A Story of Hope

Despite the pain and regret, Gillespie's story is also one of hope. He has turned his life around and is now using his experiences to help others.

His message is clear: addiction is a disease, but it is not a life sentence. With courage, determination, and support, it is possible to recover and rebuild your life.

Gillespie's story is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope. His journey from Premier League star to bankruptcy and back is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.