QPR’s Caulker says he’s ‘starting again’ after being ‘set free’

Steven Caulker has told QPR’s website he sees his return to action as a new chapter in his career.

Caulker played the full 90 minutes of this week’s cup win against Northampton Town – his first competitive game since October last year.

The defender, who has been troubled by a persistent hip problem, recently returned to training after speaking about his mental health issues and addictions to gambling and alcohol.

“I feel better that I’ve opened up. It’s set me free a bit. I’m walking the truth now. My recovery, touch wood, is going well and long may it continue,” Caulker said.

“I’ve still got a long way to go to fulfil my potential. I almost feel like I’m starting again, which is quite exciting.

“I’ve played a lot of of games but I’ve played a lot of them in heavy depression and not where I want to be. For me Tuesday was the start of something new in my career.

“It’s been really tough. There’s been times I didn’t picture myself being out on the pitch again, especially for QPR.”