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Former England goalkeeper Chris Kirkland opens up about his battle with depression and suicidal thoughts

Related Topics: Chris Kirkland, England

Former England and Liverpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has revealed his battle with depression which led to his retirement.

The 36-year-old, whose career was hampered by injuries, contemplated suicide, but says thoughts of his wife Leeona and daughter Lucy kept him going.

And he quit football after asking Bury to tear up his contract prior to the 2016-17 season, having joined a few months earlier.

Former England goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has revealed he battled with depression as a player
Former England goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has revealed he battled with depression as a player
The 36-year-old's career, which included a spell at Liverpool, was hampered by injuries
The 36-year-old's career, which included a spell at Liverpool, was hampered by injuries

Kirkland told The Guardian: 'I was worried how close I was to the next step.