DEPARTING Tranmere Rovers defender Joe Maguire has revealed he has been seeking professional help after suffering from mental health issues this season.

Maguire, who signed for Rovers on a free transfer in the summer of 2021 after two seasons with Accrington Stanley, will become a free agent next month after he was released by manager Micky Mellon.

The 26-year-old made only a handful of appearances this season and in an emotional post on his Instagram, the full back explained some of the problems he has faced. 

He said: "On a personal note this has been one of my most challenging and difficult seasons so far, physically and mentally.

"I have endured many set backs that have really took it’s toll on me ultimately effecting my mental health and personal life triggering constant negative internal thoughts.

"I finally decided to seek help and use therapy, I have been much more comfortable being open with my family and the closest people around me as well as understanding why I feel certain ways in different situations."

Maguire started his career at Liverpool and has also played for Fleetwood and Crawley Town. 

The left back thanked the Rovers fans for their support during his time at Prenton Park and urged anyone with similar issues to seek help. 

Maguire added: "It has blown my mind hearing how many other people around me are fighting with the same battles every single day but bottle it up inside.

"It’s imperative that we all be open about how we feel and not see this as a weakness, since I made the decision too reach out for help I have been able to approach life and situations in a different way enabling me to focus on simply being happy again and accepting there will be bad days.

"I’d encourage any one to do the same and if you don’t feel you have any one to turn too please drop me a message, I’d be more than happy to help, talk or listen.

"Lastly I look forward to coming back stronger than ever, rejuvenated towards the game I loved as a kid growing up."

Tweeting their support for their former player, Tranmere Rovers wrote: "Thank you for your efforts Joe and remember it’s ok not to be ok.

"Footballers are people too with their own struggles and personal battles. Good on you Joe for reaching out, this may help others to talk more too."

 

CALM Campaign Against Living Miserably (0800 58 58 58) is a leading movement against suicide. It runs a UK helpline and webchat from 5pm to midnight 365 days a year for anyone who has hit a wall for any reason, who need to talk or find information and support.