Berahino admits to depression amid 'most difficult' year of his career

Banished for a second time in a month to a conditioning camp in France, a humble Saido Berahino has addressed what he calls the most difficult year of his career.

From Baggies star to transfer target to a Premier League afterthought, Berahino released a forthright and conscientious statement on West Brom's website Sunday.

"I have had a good, constructive talk with Tony Pulis and the Club's senior management and we all agree this is the best way forward for me," a candid Berahino admitted.

"This last year has been the most difficult of my career and it has left me short of the form and fitness required for the Premier League."

Hard not to feel bad for the 23-year-old striker. After a breakthrough 2014-15 campaign saw the former England Under-21 standout bag 14 goals and become the object of interest of Tottenham, the Burundi-born Berahino's career has spiraled out of control.

Related: Baggies banish bulky Berahino to France for solo training

Berahino concedes that it's taken its toll.

"I have never been a player who lacked confidence or a belief in himself but that has been where I have found myself and it has hit me hard. It has left me feeling depressed and struggling for focus which has made it even more difficult to regain full fitness.

"Constant speculation in the media doesn't help and I have made this statement in the hope that it will respect my privacy and determination to get my career back on track."

Berhaino's ever-evolving saga has seen the striker mutate from fan favourite to a lightning rod for derision from Baggies supporters, and with a contract set to expire in the summer, the player is looking to right his wrongs with the West Brom faithful.

"I also need to speak directly to the Albion fans. I know many are angry with me and feel I have let down their club. I have to deal with that criticism."

"But I know from the messages of support I receive there are many who still believe in me. I want them to know that I intend to do everything I can to repay that faith while also hopefully winning over those who doubt me."