Austin, who played for Swindon Town, Burnley, QPR, Southampton and West Bromwich Albion, as well as a spell with Brisbane Roar in Australia, said the diagnosis still came as a “major shock” despite his suspicions.

“Eighteen months ago after discussions with my wife and best friend I decided to see a professional,” he wrote.

“After many assessments I was diagnosed with combined ADHD, scoring high in hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattentiveness.

“I went through all the emotions, confusion, upset and anger, how different could life have been if the diagnosis was at 20 instead of 34.”

Austin said his consultant recommended taking medication to treat the condition but the medications were on the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) prohibited list and so it “wasn’t an option whilst playing professional football”.

He signed for seventh–tier side AFC Totton in July and said that he is now four months into using medication and that “life is great”.

“People always say there is no point getting a diagnosis in adult life – they couldn’t be more wrong. It really is the best choice I’ve made.”