Portland Timbers forward Brian Fernandez has left the playoff-bound club to voluntarily enter Major League Soccer’s Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program (SABH).

Fernandez came to Portland with a history of issues, and he told Ole that he had not relapsed but was going through a difficult time in his life and entered the program to avoid backsliding.

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Portland said in a statement, “Our number one priority is Brian’s emotional and physical well-being. Our thoughts are with him.”

In 23 matches with Portland across all competitions, Fernandez has 15 goals and two assists and is a Designated Player.

It’s unclear whether the Argentine will be back with the club before it begins life as the West’s No. 6 seed in the MLS Cup Playoffs, but obviously there are more important things at play for Fernandez.

Brian Fernández was open about his problems with addiction before he came to MLS. He told Radio Mitre (Argentina) in April: "Drugs will ruin you. I'm battling my addiction with therapy and treatment. My fight is daily. I often find myself between a sword and the wall." https://t.co/c6k1RvaWsu — Felipe Cárdenas (@FelipeCar) October 7, 2019





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