Ricky Hatton Goes Into Rehab

Ricky Hatton has been suffering with depression spokesperson Max Clifford revealed and the boxing star has now entered a rehabilitation facility to receive the help that he requires.

The hit the headlines earlier this week when it was alleged that he had been caught snorting lines of cocaine during a night out by a tabloid newspaper.

And Clifford revealed that there had been some concern over Hatton for some time and that the drug taking was just the latest element to a bigger problem.

Speaking to the Press Association Sport Clifford said: "Ricky's father has already been talking to the specialists over the last few weeks.

He and others have been increasingly concerned about Ricky's depression and his drinking. He met with the specialist [on Monday] for four, five, six hours and he was told that his depression is severe and that he has a drink problem.

"The drugs are quite recent and not actually the problem when we're talking about degrees."

Hatton has not boxed since Spring of 2009 when he was taken out by Manny Pacquiao after just two rounds and earlier this year he had hinted that he may retire from the sport.

Hatton is now receiving the treatment that he needs but Clifford did not know how much time he would spend in rehab but revealed that those treating the star are confident that he will come through his problems.

"The problem is depression and the drink has been a problem for some time. From everything they've said, the drugs are a far more recent thing and very much superficial alongside the drink and depression.

"They are very confident if he does what they tell him with the treatment, therapy and advice, he can sort himself out. And he will do what they tell him."

FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw