Niall McNamee says he owes a lot to former Offaly manager Gerry Cooney for helping him to overcome his gambling addiction.

The rejuvenated Rhode clubman spent time in the Rutland Centre at the end of 2011 where the then Faithful boss works as a counsellor.

"My family and friends and the people of Rhode have been a terrific support for me," he told the Irish Independent.

"Gerry, too, has been very good to me, and has been a massive part of my life. He more or less saved my life in a lot of ways, in terms of getting me back. I owe him a massive debt of gratitude."

The Offaly captain also highlights the support he received from the Gaelic Players' Association (GPA).

"The GPA have been brilliant. They have so many services available to players and they have been a great help to me," he continued.

"That's what I'd love to change - I'd say to anyone struggling with addiction that if you come forward to the GPA they will put you in contact with people who will look after you and put you on the right road and help to get your life back on track. But you have to break the silence." Tweet

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