Keane: We will support Chopra

Roy Keane has pledged Sunderland's full backing to striker Michael Chopra as he “deals with some personal problems”.

The Daily Mirror reported today that the £5m former Newcastle and Cardiff player had been checked into the Sporting Chance clinic.

Chopra, 24, has played once this season, coming on as an 81st-minute substitute in the Premier League opener against Liverpool.

Keane said: “We are helping Michael as he deals with some personal issues and he has the full support of everyone at the club. We would ask that his privacy, and that of his family, is respected at this time and the club will not be commenting further on this matter.”