Queens Park Rangers midfielder Samba Diakite has been given an extended leave of absence in his native France as he is suffering from depression.
Diakite, 23, was granted a 10-day absence on 25 August but, with his club’s blessing, has yet to return.
The Mali international excelled while on loan last season from Nancy, and signed a four-year contract in June.
Last season, the Professional Footballers’ Association issued a booklet on depression to members.
The 36-page guidebook was released to more than 50,000 current and former professionals following the death of Wales manager Gary Speed.
Although it is not known whether the former Leeds United, Newcastle United and Everton midfielder had been affected by the condition, PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor wanted to “let people know there is a support system”.
The debate around mental health in football has grown since Germany goalkeeper Robert Enke took his own life in 2009 and Rushden & Diamonds keeper Dale Roberts killed himself a year later.
Diakite started QPR’s first two Premier League games of the season, but manager Mark Hughes said at the time he missed the 3-1 defeat to Manchester City last Saturday due to “personal issues”.
QPR’s club doctor is making regular visits to Diakite while he recovers, and it is not known whether he will be available for the game against Chelsea a week on Saturday.
BBC Sport
