From Football Pitch to Real Estate
Michael Johnson, once hailed as the future of England's midfield, has traded his football boots for a career in the real estate industry. The former Manchester City star, who burst onto the Premier League scene as a teenager in 2006, faced numerous setbacks due to persistent injuries.
Struggles with Injuries and Pressure
Johnson's promising progress was derailed by a series of physical setbacks, including recurring abdominal problems and a double-hernia operation. Knee issues further hindered his chances of securing a spot in the starting lineup, limiting his appearances to just 45 for Man City and twice for England's Under-21s.
A Downward Spiral
Unable to cope with the mounting pressure, Johnson turned to alcohol as he battled with his knee and hip injuries. His struggles off the pitch came to light when he was arrested twice for drink-driving in the year leading up to his release from Manchester City in 2012. Johnson's mental health also suffered, leading him to seek treatment at The Priory on two occasions.
Praise from Former Teammate Micah Richards
Micah Richards, who played alongside Johnson during their time at the Etihad, spoke highly of his former teammate's abilities. Richards described Johnson as a tenacious player with the skills of both Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard, and he was once considered the best natural player at Manchester City since Colin Bell. However, injuries took a toll on Johnson's performance and his overall well-being.
A New Chapter as an Estate Agent
Now 35 years old, Johnson has found solace in his new career as an estate agent. Richards revealed that Johnson is content with his life outside of football and has embraced his role in the real estate industry. Some players, like Johnson, struggle to handle the physical and mental demands that come with the game, and ultimately find fulfillment in other endeavors.
Dealing with Fame and Personal Challenges
Behind the scenes, Johnson faced a different reality than what was portrayed in the media. While newspapers celebrated his talent, Johnson admitted that he lacked the inner strength to cope with the public scrutiny and high expectations. The pressures of the game took a toll on him, ultimately leading him down a different path.
As Johnson embarks on this new chapter of his life, he serves as a reminder that not all football journeys follow a linear path. The story of his career serves as a cautionary tale of the challenges faced by young athletes in the competitive world of professional football.
Frequently Asked Questions
When playing football, should I wear compression gear?
Compression gear can be helpful for footballers. It may help to increase blood circulation and reduce muscle fatigue. A tight-fitting material may also help to stabilize the muscles. It’s up to you whether or not you choose to wear compression gear. Your comfort should be your primary concern when selecting compression equipment.
What should I consider before buying a football?
When selecting a soccer, you should consider its size, the construction and the material. Players aged 12 and up, including adult players, should use size 5. For younger players, smaller sizes are recommended. Leather is best for grassy surfaces, while synthetics are better for more rough surfaces. In addition, the thermal-bonded ball offers better waterproofing as well as shape retention than stitched footballs. Durability, feel, and flight are other important features to look at.
How can I make sure my football boots are the right size?
If you want to ensure that your football boot fits properly, it should not be too tight. It should allow some movement of the foot without causing the boot to slip. It is important to leave a small space between the toes on the boot’s front and your thumb to avoid the toes being squeezed in during running or kicking. It’s also imperative to consider the width of your feet and select a boot style that accommodates narrow or wide foot shapes. Always try on boots with football socks and lace them up fully to assess the fit accurately.
Why is it that shinguards are mandatory for all football players?
Shin guards for footballers are mandatory as they offer vital protection to lower legs that are susceptible to injury in collisions and tackles. They protect the shins against serious injuries, such as fractures or severe bruises. The football governing bodies enforce the wearing of shinguards to ensure player safety.
What are the basic pieces of equipment required for playing football?
The basic equipment required for playing football includes a jersey or shirt, shorts, stockings, shin guards, and cleats or football boots. Goalkeepers need additional gear like padded clothing and specialized gloves to protect them while diving and jumping. The correct clothing is essential for all players in order to stay safe and follow the rules.
Statistics
- Research has indicated that around 60% of football-related ankle injuries could be mitigated with the correct choice of footwear.
- Goalkeeper gloves with advanced grip technology have been adopted by 85% of professional goalkeepers in top leagues around the world.
- Around 25% of youth football players have reported using equipment that is either outdated or not suited to their position on the field.
- Approximately 40% of amateur football players wear boots that are not properly fitted, increasing the risk of foot injuries.
- Data shows that thermo-bonded footballs, known for their consistent performance, are preferred by 65% of professional football clubs for matches.
External Links
adidas.com
podiatrytoday.com
decathlon.co.uk
prodirectsoccer.com
uksoccershop.com
How To
How to Pick the Right Protective Gear For Football
The protective gear should be a key part of the equipment bag for any footballer. Assess each piece for comfort, safety, and compatibility with the player’s position. It is essential to wear mouthguards for the sake of protecting your teeth and reducing risk of concussion. Padded underwear can provide additional cushioning to goalkeepers or other players at greater risk of contact. Arm and leg sleeves offer minor abrasion protection and compression. It is important that all equipment meets league safety standards, and is properly certified.
