'I had two options - pick up the phone or maybe die'

Whitley won 20 caps for Northern Ireland between 1997 and 2005"I had two choices. I either keep doing what I’m doing and maybe die, or I pick up the phone and ask for help."

Jeff Whitley's story is not one of despair, but of hope.

The 49-year-old played for a host of big clubs in the Premier League and Championship, such as Manchester City and Sunderland, as well as earning 20 international caps for Northern Ireland.

But behind the scenes, battles with alcohol and drugs led to problems off the pitch, including bankruptcy and a spell in rehab.

Now in a position to help others, this is his story of coming back from the brink.

____________________________________

After coming through the club's…