Flamengo Striker Adriano: I Almost Ended Up Like Robert Enke

Former Inter striker Adriano has sensationally revealed he could have committed suicide after becoming depressed following the death of his father as he drew parallels with the tragic death of Hannover and Germany goalkeeper Robert Enke.

The German was killed after being struck by a train earlier this week. Police and the local media claimed he had committed suicide in an incident that sent shockwaves through the sporting world.

Adriano has lobbied for more support for players who encounter problems during their careers.

"Depression exists in sport and we must not underestimate the problem," Adriano is quoted as saying by La Repubblica.

"It's necessary to treat the problem. It affected me too, and something like that [Enke's death] could have happened to me also.

"It happened in 2004 after the death of my father. I went through it and I ended up having an alcohol problem.

"I started to drink because it was my way of avoiding the problem and because I suffered insomnia. I forgot about all the responsibilities I had."

Adriano has rediscovered his best form with Flamengo since joining the club. He was not picked by Carlos Dunga for Brazil's friendly with England though.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com