Ex-Premier League star breaks silence after he is found safe a week after police launched search mission in Hungary

Former Premier League star Akos Buzsaky has admitted he had been 'overwhelmed' by 'significant changes in his life' as he confirmed he is safe after being reported missing.

The 44-year-old, who played for QPR in the English top flight, had been missing from Budapest since August 18.

Police in Hungary had launched a search, while his former clubs had expressed their concern over his wellbeing.

Buzsaky has now taken to social media to reassure fans having become aware of the search, sharing both a photo and a message.

'Dear friends and acquaintances. Unfortunately, significant changes have occurred in my life over the past few months - changes that have truly put me to the test,' Buzsaky wrote.

'Things became overwhelming, and I reached a point where I felt I needed to step away from my daily routine; as a result of a misunderstanding, my worried mother contacted the police.

Akos Buzsaky shared a photo and message on social media to reassure fans after he had been reported missing

Buzsaky's former club QPR had been among those to express concerns over his wellbeing earlier this week

'Thank you so much to everyone who worried about me and kept me in your thoughts.

'As soon as I learned about the situation, I cut my retreat short and we notified the authorities.

'I wish everyone a wonderful day, and I am deeply touched by all the love I’ve received!

'Best regards, Akos Buzsaky.'

Buzsaky earned 20 caps for Hungary as a midfielder during his playing career.

He also played for Plymouth, Portsmouth and Barnsley before retiring in 2015.

He made 18 Premier League appearances, contributing two goals and two assists.

Buzsaky's father had explained earlier this week that his son now spends a lot of time in Greece, where he works in construction.

Speaking on Hungarian podcast Neked lágy! back in 2022, Buzsaky had admitted turning to alcohol, gambling and drugs when his career came to an end.

'I was constantly injured during my career, practically every two years I had a serious injury. I subconsciously prepared myself for the end of my career,' he said.

'At that time, I should have turned to a specialist, because I was in a hole and I couldn’t find the source of joy that football gave me.

'When that stops, people tend to try and experience things that they didn’t have the opportunity to do during the game.

'I became addicted. I found a source of joy in life that I became addicted to. What addictions are there: gambling, alcohol, drugs. I fell into one of them, which I’m not proud of.'