A Premier League star has reportedly become addicted to sleeping pills that he often mixes with vodka.
According to a report from The Sun , the England international has been consuming the dangerous concoction at illegal lockdown parties.
He has also been known to down expensive champagne with the tablets that he has sourced from the black market.
The Class C drug - Zopiclone - is only available through normal means by prescription, but the star has been able to get his hands on a number of packs.
Close friends are now urging the player to seek help for the sake of his career as the after-effects of the pills have been impacting his performances in training.
A source told The Sun: “I watched him swallow zopiclone while he was boozing.
“He discarded the empty packet on the floor. Anyone could see what they were.
“I couldn’t believe it and turned to my friend, who is a team-mate.
“He told me this is why he has been struggling. He is addicted to the tablets.
“His teammates and friends are really worried. It will totally affect his game."
The report adds that the star takes the pills to feel "euphoric", even though they make him "lacklustre" the next day.
Zopiclone does not show up on the Premier League's drug-testing system either, with the star now convinced he's managed to get round the authorities.
The highly addictive drug is normally used to treat insomnia and has seen its recreational use become more prevalent, as it makes the user feel 'high'.
As The Sun's source claimed, the player has even managed to pull the wool over the eyes of those at his club by keeping the tablets inside his washbag alongside his toiletries.
Said source also detailed attending an illegal party with the player, who he says the star was "off his face."
The player's teammates are even aware of what he is up to and are concerned he is "messing his life up".
It is not clear who the identity of the player is, or if he is still an active member of Gareth Southgate's England squad.
*If you are concerned about drug use or are looking for advice, Frank offers a live chat facility on their website , email support , an SMS number – 82111 and a 24 hour telephone helpline – 0300 123 6600.
