five years ago, dr david blakelock spoke to more than 90 academy footballers as part of a mental health study. a sizeable proportion did experience what we'd call clinical levels of distress. in the first month after release it was between 35 and 55% of players experienced those difficulties. symptoms linked with depression, anxiety, loss of confidence that can lead to really, you know, negative consequences for the individual themselves. the premier league says "player care is an integral part of eppp" and that "players receive mental and emotional wellbeing education, as well as practical life skills to help support them beyond the academy environment." it says it runs "pre—season preparation camps to support released players on career and pathway possibilities in and out of football."