Pint Size

Over the years, few rugby league players have crossed the north-south divide. Only a handful have a reputation that breaks from the game's heartlands. Andy Gregory is one of them. Mention Gregory and it conjures up images of a sublime talent, creating truly memorable tries, inspiring club and country to against-all-odds triumphs with chest puffed out and the cocky stride of a man who knows he's better than all the rest. Coaching glories followed as he led Salford Reds back from the disappointment at missing out on the Super League revolution and into the top flight, before it all turned bitter - and lager, Guinness and vodka. Like so many other sporting heroes, Gregory has always liked a drink. But over the years that post-match pint turned into a day-long binge. So much so that it contributed to the break-up of his marriage and missing out on seeing his daughter grow through the early years. Now Gregory, victim of an acrimonious split with Salford amid tales of being stabbed in the back by his assistants, has bared his soul and spilled the beans on one of the most controversial careers in rugby league history.