Man Utd's Rhys Bennett granted leave after father's suicide

Manchester United defender Rhys Bennett has been granted compassionate leave after announcing on social media that his father took his own life over the weekend. The 21-year-old academy graduate posted photos of his family on Instagram and described himself as "broken, devastated" while urging anyone struggling to seek help. The club has offered pastoral support as he takes time away from training and matches.

In his Instagram message Bennett wrote, "Dad, I never thought I'd have to write this so soon, over the weekend I found out that he'd took his own life. Broken, devastated, just don't want to believe it's real but the sad reality is that it is... I love you in this life and the next." He also included contact details for charities providing immediate emotional support and added, "Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem, please speak up, you don't realise how much you are truly loved."

Several current and former teammates responded to Bennett's post with messages of condolence. Dan Gore wrote, "So sorry brother, sending my love to you and your family." Tyler Fredricson commented, "So sorry to hear mate, sending love to you." Gabriele Biancheri added, "Thoughts...