BACP has commended Leicester City goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel for talking about his grief following the tragic death of the football club’s owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.

Mr Schmeichel said he has received a lot of support after witnessing the helicopter crash in which Mr Srivaddhanaprabha and four other people lost their lives in a helicopter crash, while the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has offered Leicester City players and staff counselling from BACP members.

Speaking after Leicester’s first fixture since the accident, the Denmark international indicated he has received counselling, saying: “I was on the pitch, I waved him off, I saw it all happen.

“It was something that will stay with me, unfortunately, but the club has been great and given us all the support we needed.”

A BACP spokesperson said: “We commend anyone who speaks out about their mental health. It is especially powerful when role models like footballers speak out as it can encourage others to take brave steps towards seeking the therapy they need.

“Seeking help shows real mental strength. It doesn’t matter who you are or what your job is, everyone needs support sometimes and we know that counselling changes lives.

“Losing someone can be a deeply painful and difficult experience and it is important to talk to someone.

“BACP counsellors and psychotherapists are highly skilled in listening to people and can offer valuable support in helping you make sense of what has happened.”

To find a BACP counsellor or psychotherapist visit our therapist directory.