Deese Kasinga’s dreams came true when he signed a two-year deal at Newcastle aged 16. But this soon turned into heartbreak when he faced a huge setback. This story explores the highs and lows of academy football and the tough realities of trying to make it as a pro.
A Newcastle United spokesperson told BBC Sport the club “takes the welfare of its players and staff very seriously” and has a range of support measures in place, including full-time safeguarding and welfare officers in the academy, and an external specialist agency.
Newcastle said: “We work closely with our young players through player care workshops and life skills training to educate them on subjects including mental health and suicide prevention.
“Mental health issues are so often hidden and we would encourage anyone who is suffering to seek support by talking to someone they trust. The club deals with such matters sensitively and confidentially.”
The PFA said: “We provide members with advice and guidance to encourage personal development and career prospects beyond football. Our message to young players is ‘it’s never too early to start thinking about life after football.”