I used to “drink myself almost to pass out”

Former rugby league star Wayne Rooney has revealed he would drink alcohol until he passed out to cope with the pressures of professional football in his 20s. SkyNews mentionted.

In a new podcast hosted by former rugby star Rob Barrow, Rooney, 38, said his “release was alcohol” when facing challenges both on and off the pitch.

“When I was in my early 20s, I would spend a couple of days at home and not leave the house and drink myself almost to the point of passing out,” said the former England striker. “I didn’t want to be around people because sometimes you feel embarrassed and like you’ve let people down. Ultimately I didn’t know how else to deal with it, so I turned to alcohol to try and help me through it,” Rooney added.

“There were people there for me to talk to but I chose not to and tried to deal with it on my own. When you do that and you don’t get the help and guidance of others, you can be in a low position. Luckily now I’m not afraid to go and talk to people about issues I might have.’

The now Birmingham City manager made his Premier League debut with Everton in 2002 aged 16. He joined Manchester United two years later in a then record £27m transfer.

Rooney scored 53 goals for England and is Manchester United’s all-time top scorer. He spent 13 years at Old Trafford before playing for Everton, DC United and Derby.

Rugby legend Barrow and his wife Lindsey are set to interview sporting legends including Jonny Wilkinson and Dame Kelly Holmes during his new seven-part podcast series.

Rooney also praised Barrow’s “inspirational” way of dealing with motor neurone disease and referred to his wife Colin’s sister Rosie, who died of Rett syndrome aged 14.

“I know firsthand the impact this can have on yourself and those closest to you,” Rooney said. “Everyone has to change their lifestyle, and I had it with my sister-in-law who didn’t suffer from the same disease, but something as serious. Your energy and drive help everyone around you. I will always be here. and family you and your close friends will always be there to help you with whatever you need.”