Sturridge reveals his best bet was coming clean

DEAN STURRIDGE lived with a secret for more than 40 years.

- By John Cross

The former Derby striker kept it from his team-mates, family and friends because of the "shame, embarrassment and guilt" of being an addict.

But Sturridge, 51, is now taking the brave step of speaking out on his years of gambling to help others and raise awareness, as well as highlight the dangers for young footballers.

Ex-Premier League star Sturridge, now a successful agent, never gambled on football and has gone five-and-a-half years without a bet.

Sturridge, right, said: "It took me 40 years-plus to realise I was an addict.

"Gambling can be a form of escapism for a footballer. You feel a pressure, maybe you're having a hard time with a manager, if you're not playing, you can get bored but gambling can be a release and also feed your ego.