AFL to help Cousins through his addiction

The AFL have put their hand up to help Ben Cousins turn his life around with a pledge to fund any rehabilitation the fallen star undertakes.

Cousins, who this week revealed he was living out of a backpack, has had a long running battle with drug addiction.

AFL boss Gill McLachlan made the offer to Cousins’ father months ago but it is believed to be an open-ended offer and would involved footing the bill for the treatment of Ben at a rehabilitation facility.

The challenge however is convincing the West Coast Eagles champion to enter any such treatment.

Cousins has a history of relapsing quickly after previous attempts at rehabilitation.

The Brownlow Medalist has lost the fortune he amassed from a hugely successful football career and recently spent two nights in custody breaching a domestic violence order.

He is due to face court again next week on separate charges.

The AFL will not comment on the offer at present.