Colin Hendry endorses betting firm despite going bankrupt due to GAMBLING

FORMER gambling addict Colin Hendry has landed a new job – with an online betting firm.

The former Scotland captain, whose clubs included Rangers and Blackburn Rovers, went bust with debts of £2.2million in 2010 after blowing a fortune betting on the internet.

But the 50-year-old has now been recruited as a brand ambassador for Scandinavian-based casino network Matching Visions.

The defender once known as Braveheart will represent the company at the SiGMA gaming conference in Malta.

A statement on the firm’s website said: “Colin Hendry will represent Matching Visions, both on and off the field.

“The mighty and ever so exciting All-In Translations are organising an all-day football tournament and their latest signing will, of course, be the first name on the Matching Visions team sheet.

“Off the field, Hendry will be the Matching Visions ambassador throughout the conference and join in with the fun and exciting activities that the MV team has in store ahead of this fantastic event.

“There is no doubt that this warrior-like football hero will have plenty of stories to share and visitors will also be able to challenge Colin in various competitions at the Matching Visions stand.”

Hendry went off the rails after his wife Denise died in 2009 from the complications of botched cosmetic surgery.

He was made bankrupt in June 2010 with debts of more than £2million, including more than £1million owed to the taxman. Debts to family, friends and online gaming firm Spread Ex made up much of the rest.

The news that he is now a brand ambassador for a gaming firm was met with shock by one former friend who lost money he lent to Hendry.

Hector McFarlane, who loaned Hendry £90,000, said: “Hendry admitted gambling his money and mine away on the internet.

“Now he accepts a role with an international internet gaming company. Shame on him.”

Keith-born Hendry, who still plays for Lancashire amateur side Clifton Casuals, was banned from the road last year after being caught drink-driving.

The SiGMA conference is touted as the world’s leading gaming gathering.

Hendry’s eldest son Kyle, who used to play for Rangers and Blackburn Rovers youth teams, now lives in Malta.