Leigh Griffiths speaks out about why he’s taking a leave of absence
The striker has confirmed that his time away from Celtic is down to a struggle with metal health issues not an addiction to drugs or gambling
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LEIGH GRIFFITHS has taken to social media to confirm that he is taking a leave of absence for mental health issues, rather than for addiction to gambling and drugs.
The Celtic striker has been out of action since December and has the full support of boss Brendan Rodgers.
Releasing a statement on Twitter, Griffiths said: "I am off work due to my mental health state. Not gambling, drugs, or any other issue that has been written about me.
"If anyone would like to come forward with real evidence that suggests I'm off with the above mentioned either from my employers or anyone else, let's see it."
The 28-year-old's boss spoke out about Griffiths stepping away from football for a period in December, Rodgers said: "He's reached a point where it's a struggle for him.
"We are going to give him all the professional help he needs to get him back in a good place again."
The Hoops striker is battling issues in his personal life, but posted a positive New Year's message where he vowed to come back stronger than ever to help his team continue to achieve.
Griffiths is one of Celtic's most prolific strikers and they'll no doubt hope he can return as soon as he is better, to fend off Steven Gerrard's title chasing Rangers.
The Celtic's hero donated who died in policy custody before Christmas.
Griffith's message comes in the wake of being spotted at Newcastle races.
