While not wishing to suggest in any way that he [idoes[/i have a drinking problem, I'd be interested in what you consider to be the obvious signs that he hasn't. Given that people with drinking problems frequently manage to hide them from family and close friends until the later stages.

Possibly the biggest clue would be the ability to train full time and maintain his health and fitness which will be monitored heavily.

Also knowing him a little and members of his close family well and having spoken to him frankly about this very issue and hearing his reply.

You mean like, oh I dont know, not missing training because of the effects of a heavy session?

There are degrees of everything. He could get ripped to the tits three nights a week and still train every day (though not as effectively as he would do otherwise, granted). Whilst he may not drink all day every day, getting wasted that regularly could be said to be a 'drink problem'. Particularly for a pro sportsman. Not saying it is the case, just that it's possible.



What's he gonna say?

"Yeah, I make George Best look like a choirboy, Nige."

Why dont you all get off the kids back, he likes a drink which so do a lot of us but that doesnt make him a alchoholic. I think he has more heart, passion and commitment for this club than half the team put together which for me goes alot further than his (drink problem).