The club revealed that Rae has checked into a residential clinic to receive counselling for a condition which had been "brought on by problems in his private life".

Sunderland's management say they will be guided by the clinic in terms of the 29-year-old's return to football.

The club issued a statement pledging their support.

It said: "This is not a time for reproach but for patience, understanding and support while Alex recovers. The club, his team-mates and family wish him all the best and hope to see him back in training for Sunderland soon.

"It is not easy to admit that you have a problem but Alex has taken the first step to recovery by accepting he needs help.

"We are confident he will make a speedy recovery with the support of the people closest to him and everyone at the football club."

Rae's problems closely follow those of Paul Gascoigne at Sunderland's North-East rivals Middlesbrough.