"Proud Of You": Dele Alli's Girlfriend Shows Support For Everton Star After His Brave Interview With Gary Neville
Dele Alli's girlfriend has told the soccer star that she is "proud" of him after he bravely opened up about his childhood trauma and a recent battle with an addiction to sleeping pills.
In an interview with Gary Neville that was published on The Overlap's YouTube channel on Thursday, Everton midfielder Dele, 27, revealed that he had been sexually assaulted at the age of six.
Dele also told Neville that he was used to sell drugs when he was eight, before being adopted four years later.
Discussing more recent events, Dele explained how he had become addicted to sleeping tablets during his playing career but that a six-week spell at an American rehab center earlier this year had helped him get clean.
The reaction to Dele's interview was very positive.
Countless members of the soccer community - including Jadon Sancho, Christian Eriksen, Daniel Sturridge and Leah Williamson - all sent positive comments in reply to an Instagram post from Dele about the interview.
Music star Tom Grennan also replied, writing: "This interview speaks volumes and will help so many. Loads of love Dele".
But one of the first comments came from a person very close to Dele.
Cindy Kimberly, who has been Dele's girlfriend since last summer, posted a white heart emoji alongside the words: "Proud of you".
Dele Alli and girlfriend Cindy Kimberly pictured in November last year
Instagram/dele
Cindy showed her support for Dele this week with a message on Instagram
Instagram/dele
Meanwhile, Harry Hickford, Dele's adopted brother and former teammate from his days in the MK Dons youth team, posted a 93-word tribute.
Alongside a photograph of himself and Dele from their school days, Hickford wrote on Instagram: "I can't put into words how proud I am of you @dele. It took so much strength and courage for you to open up about your recent struggles.
"You will never understand how many people you have helped by doing so. You have endured so many ups and downs but have grown into an incredible person who I am so proud to call my brother.
"It's been a difficult few years but the steps you have taken have given you the very best chance for a happy and successful life. Love you brother."
Dele is currently in Switzerland with the Everton squad at a pre-season training camp.
He is not expected to play in Friday's friendly game against Stade Nyonnais due to an injury issue.
