Post by Taxigirl on Feb 13, 2004 10:47:44 GMT
Do you watch top footballers in total awe of their lives?
In reality they're no different to any of us - except for a Ferrari or two!
Just ask Charlton and Republic of Ireland star Matt Holland.
We caught up with him at the recent Playstation Schools Cup in London to discover the real him.
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Did you ever play in a tournament like this when you was a kid?
"It was only school leagues back then and then Saturdays with a local club."
Get your hands on free football kits
"In fact I seem to remember playing constantly especially with my two brothers.
"My mum was always having to clear up broken china and pictures..."
Come again, what were pictures doing in the garden?
"Not in the garden, we played so often we used to play indoors as well!"
So do you ever get sick of football?
"A defeat on Saturday can sometimes ruin the whole weekend for me.
"Family life makes up for it though, especially helping my kids with their football.
"And then it's back to training which I love."
What about other sports?
"I've tried most sports - footballers love to play golf but I'm just a fair-weather golfer - once or twice a year.
"But I like to help out my wife with her horse riding competitions."
Life in the junior ranks of Charlton Ladies
And is there a sport you'd like to try for the first time?
"Skiing, I'd love to go skiing but at the moment I'm not allowed so it'll have to wait until I've stopped playing."
Would you try snowboarding as well?
"I'm sure I'll be terrible on two skis so let me get to grip with those first."
Any other interests away from football?
"Like everyone I like music and go to the cinema as often as possible.
"I've got David Gray and Norah Jones in the car but I recommend the Coldplay album."
You mentioned you're a bit of a film buff, what would be your film of the year, Lord of the Rings?
"No, I haven't seen any of them, I don't think I could sit down for that long.
"But if you go to see one film this year make it Seabiscuit, maybe it's the horse racing theme but I thought it was great."
So there you are a footballer's life - straight from the horses mouth so to speak!
Matt Holland factfile
Born: 11 April 1974
Place of birth: Bury
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5ft 9 inches
Rep of Ireland caps: 35
International goals: 4
Did you know?
Matt has only ever played for three league clubs
He's made the most appearances of any Charlton player this season
GO MATTY ;D