Gambling addiction cost Steve Masterton

Gambling addiction cost Crawley footballer Old Trafford chance

A footballer has spoken about his ten-year gambling addiction hell that ruled him out of the biggest game in Crawley Town's history.

Former Red Devil Steve Masterton said his addiction had robbed him of the chance to join his team-mates at Old Trafford during their heroic FA Cup battle in February.

The 26-year-old is now attempting to rebuild his career in Scotland after being released by the Football League newcomers.

Masterton says the birth of his son Charlie nine weeks ago has strengthened his resolve to turn his life around and he has recently checked in to Gamblers Anonymous.

Speaking to a Scottish newspaper, he said: "I'm not the first player to admit my weaknesses but hopefully this is a fresh start now I have told my own story of what gambling has cost me.

"I'll never forget when I hit rock bottom.

“It arrived as I sat at home in Crawley watching my club play against Man United at Old Trafford.

"I should have been there on the pitch with my team-mates as I was perfectly fit and part of the squad but just wasn't taken to the game.

"There I was sitting on my couch and realising the chaos my life was in through gambling and it was a heavy price.

"But now my focus is on repairing the damage my addiction has caused."

Masterton said he had been clear of gambling for some time and is looking to revive his playing career north of the border.

“We are pleased that Steve is now confronting his off-the-field problems and we wish him and his family every possible success for the future. “ BOX Former Albion player Warren Aspinall helped to launch a Samaritans campaign after admitting he was seconds away from taking his own life after gambling away £1 million.

Another former Seagull and ex-Whitehawk manager, George Parris, admitted he considered suicide after gambling away thousands of pounds over 20 years.