Gordon Strachan reveals depression battle since ‘clumsy’ comments about Adam Johnson and racism in football
The former Manchester United and Scotland star admitted he made a 'clumsy mistake' when he appeared to conflate racism issues in the game with the former Sunderland player Adam Johnson’s conviction for child sex offences
Your support helps us to tell the story
This election is still a dead heat, according to most polls. In a fight with such wafer-thin margins, we need reporters on the ground talking to the people Trump and Harris are courting. Your support allows us to keep sending journalists to the story.
The Independent is trusted by 27 million Americans from across the entire political spectrum every month. Unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock you out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. But quality journalism must still be paid for.
Help us keep bring these critical stories to light. Your support makes all the difference.
Gordon Strachan has revealed he battled depression in the wake of the controversy which led to Sky no longer using him on its programmes.
The former Manchester United and Scotland star admitted he made a “clumsy mistake” when he appeared to conflate racism issues in the game with the former Sunderland player Adam Johnson’s conviction for child sex offences.
Strachan was not a Sky employee, but it is understood the broadcaster will not be using him again in the wake of the comments made on a panel show. And Strachan says the reaction to his words have taken a toll on both himself and his family.
Speaking to The Times, Strachan said: “After 47 years in the game I’m now having to try and justify myself. I don’t want to be known for that clumsy mistake. It’s heartbreaking. I’m truly sorry for the clumsiness of my words.
“I got persecuted, humiliated and embarrassed for something that was clumsy. I wouldn’t put my worst enemy through those three days. I didn’t eat, couldn’t sleep, couldn’t speak to people. It affected my family. I still get it now. When I’m sitting on my own, it’s ‘woah’. I’ve been depressed.”
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments