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'I know I'm not alone'

Clarke Carlisle speaks for the first time since mystery disappearance

Ex-Burnley, QPR and Leeds defender, 37, has battled mental health problems and was admitted to hospital previously

CLARKE CARLISLE has spoken for the first time since he vanished for 12 hours last month.

The ex-Burnley, QPR and Leeds defender has battled mental health problems and was admitted to hospital.

 Clarke Carlisle has spoken about his recent disappearance
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Clarke Carlisle has spoken about his recent disappearanceCredit: Rex Features

Carlisle, who turned 38 on Saturday, was found after his wife Carrie posted a plea on Twitter.

Commenting for the first time, Carlisle said: "I can’t begin to thank you all for your love and support in recent weeks.

"I know I’m not alone, and neither are any of you."

He posted the hashtag 'smallsteps' next to his Tweet.

 Carlisle tweeted with the hashtag 'smallsteps'
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Carlisle tweeted with the hashtag 'smallsteps'Credit: Rex Features
Clarke Carlisle: I wanted to die
 Carlisle back in his playing days as a QPR defender
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Carlisle back in his playing days as a QPR defenderCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd


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Police and his former clubs Burnley and Preston launched an appeal when he went missing.

The dad of three, who tried to take his own life by jumping in front of a lorry in 2014, was found in Liverpool.

Carrie, who is expecting their first child, said she counted her blessings when he was found in Liverpool.


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 Carlisle made an appearance on Countdown in 2010
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Carlisle made an appearance on Countdown in 2010Credit: PA:Press Association
 Carlisle signed off as a player at Northampton in 2013
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Carlisle signed off as a player at Northampton in 2013Credit: Getty Images - Getty

Carrie said: “I could never fully comprehend why people call themselves sufferers of mental illness. Until now.

She added: “Marriage is to put a heart into someone’s hands and hope they are careful with it.

“Mental healthcare is far more risky. To do the same, but with a mind.”

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