Liverpool defender discusses mental health struggles after teammate and father deaths

A Liverpool defender has spoken publicly about the deaths of a teammate and his father within the past 12 months and the effect those losses had on his mental health. The player said the teammate died in a crash shortly before pre-season training and that the loss left him without interest in other activities.

He added that he continued playing because the club required him to fulfill his contract.

Personal losses and performance The defender stated that his father died in January after a long illness. He said he did not know whether to leave the team during that period and kept his difficulties private at the time. He described depression as beginning in the heart, moving to the brain, and affecting the entire body.

The player noted that his form declined during this period and that he never felt fully recovered.

Advice on seeking support The defender said he now recommends speaking with others when facing difficulties. He added that he contacted the head coach during compassionate leave to return amid an injury crisis and scored in a subsequent match. He stated that support from teammates, fans, and family was present but that personal resilience remained necessary.