Ex-Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue reveals suicide thoughts

London Dec 25 (IANS) Former Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue revealed he had thoughts of committing suicide after facing monetary problems in his post-football life.

The 34-year-old who plied his trade for Turkish Cypriot sports club -- Türk Ocagi Limasol S.K. has been unable to play anymore due to ill-health.

The right-back however remains an Arsenal hero where he made 132 appearances from 2004 to 2011. He was also a part of the London club which finished as runners-up in the 2005-06 Champions League season.

"I want God to help me " the 34-year-old was quoted as saying by the Independent on Sunday.

"Only he can help take these thoughts from my mind " Eboue added.

The former Ivory Coast international has also been struggling with the death of his grandfather Amadou Bertin -- who raised him before being diagnosed with cancer and his brother N Dri Serge -- who was killed in a motorbike accident. He has also faced divorce from his wife Aurelie -- who will be awarded all of their assets.

The defender admitted he cannot afford a lawyer anymore and he stays scared and keeps himself away from meeting people.

"I am in the house but I am scared. Because I don t know what time the police will come " Eboue who made 79 appearances for Ivory Coast said.

"Sometimes I shut off the lights because I don t want people to know that I am inside. I put everything behind the door.

"My own house. I suffered to buy my house but I am now scared.

"I am not going to sell my clothes or sell what I have. I will fight until the end because it is not fair " Eboue added.

--IANS
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