David White becomes latest footballer to speak out about sexual abuse
Thursday 24 November 2016 00:22, UK
Former England international David White has become the fourth footballer to speak out about being sexually abused as a child by a coach.
White follows ex-Crewe players Andy Woodward and Steve Walters, and former Tottenham and Liverpool midfielder Paul Stewart in detailing the abuse suffered.
The former Manchester City and Leeds United forward claims to have been abused by former Crewe youth coach, Barry Bennell.
Bennell was jailed for nine years in 1998 after pleading guilty to sexual offences, with Woodward and Walters also claiming they were abused by him.
White told the BBC: "Given recent press stories I wish to confirm I was sexually abused by my former football coach Barry Bennell in the late 70s and early 80s - this abuse took place while I was attached to Whitehill FC Junior team based in Manchester.
"For a number of reasons, and for nearly two decades, I kept my ordeal secret from my family and friends.
"While I believe throughout my football career I have come to terms with what had happened, I now realise the effects of Bennell's actions were much more far reaching than I knew then.
"Last year I made the decision to gather my thoughts, reflect on my experience, and tell my life story in my own words.
"I did not set out to write a story about the abuse, but I knew I would have to include it. In doing so I have come to terms with the fact that Bennell's actions influenced almost every event and relationship in my life.
"The process of writing the book became sometimes painful, always cathartic and incredibly liberating. I would like to say that I don't feel brave.
"This is just my story and I am now happy to tell it because despite the profound effects of 1970/80 I feel like one of the lucky ones.
"Circumstances took me away from the abuse before it escalated. I salute Andy Woodward, Steve Walters and Paul Stewart for so bravely revealing their personal tragedies.
"The physical abuse they and others suffered was certainly more extreme and prolonged than my ordeal, and I cannot be sure that I would have their courage."
Sky News understands that 11 people have now approached Cheshire Police with information regarding alleged football-related abuse and the force are now in the process of contacting them. No arrests have been made.
Last week, Woodward broke his silence on the abuse he suffered at the hands of Bennell while at Crewe between the ages of 11 and 15.
Walters revealed on Monday the abuse he suffered at the hands of Bennell, while Stewart described the abuse he suffered from an unnamed youth coach as a child over a four-year period.
*A new hotline for footballers who have been the victims of sexual abuse has been launched by the NSPCC. The hotline will be available 24 hours a day on 0800 023 2642.
