Wife to stand by troubled striker

Michael Chopra is married to a reality television star

The wife of Sunderland striker Michael Chopra has vowed to stand by him after he went into rehab.

She confirmed reports that the 24-year-old had checked himself into a private clinic to combat problems with gambling and relationship issues.

Heather Swan, 25, said she hoped her husband of 11 weeks would return from the Sporting Chance Clinic in Hampshire "better and stronger".

Manager Roy Keane said the club fully supported the player.

Chopra has a six-month-old son with his wife, a reality television celebrity who appeared in the ITV2 show Wags Boutique.

Ms Swan said in a statement: "Michael and I have been together since we were 16 and have been through so much together.

"I am standing by him 100% and give him my full support in hope that his time in rehab will help him to come home feeling stronger and better.

"We are obviously having some personal difficulties but it is at these times we get stronger and we plan to work through any problems together and look forward to being a happy family with our son Sebastian."

Roy Keane said: "We are helping Michael as he deals with some personal issues and he has the full support of everyone at the club."

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