Gambling ‘can put players off their game’

SAM ALLARDYCE believes that if players run up huge gambling debts their career can go downhill “no matter who you are”.

But the Bolton manager insists that if Wayne Rooney has a problem - as has been reported - there is no better man than Alex Ferguson to put him straight.

Manchester United manager Ferguson claimed it was “nonsense” to suggest the young England striker owed £700,000 (€1 million).

Allardyce said: “If there has been a problem, it has probably already been dealt with.

“There is no one better than Sir Alex to guide him down the right route.

“Gambling is an ever increasing pastime. How many people had a bet on the Grand National?

“It is only when the high becomes addictive and you cannot stop yourself, then you have a problem.

“As long as you realise you might be getting to that point, it is fine.

“But any more than that it becomes extremely dangerous. It can put you off your game, no matter who you are.”

Asked if there was a gambling culture at Bolton, Allardyce quipped: “Not at all. Our lads are so tight they never bring any money with them in the first place.

“A few lads like a little flutter but it is done in a fun way, that’s all.”

Allardyce added: “You will never get betting banned because it raises so much money for the industry, not to mention the government.”