“People react to criticism in different ways, and my way is definitely to come out fighting.”

I’ve got friends in the different teams I’ve played for, but family is the most important thing to me. That will always be the case.

I always wanted to be a hairdresser.

My private life is perfect. If your private life and your life outside football is good, then it is good on the field for you.

When I was a kid, I thought my dad was a little bit harsh with me at times. Sometimes I needed an arm around me instead of my dad telling me what I did wrong, but it obviously worked.

Like any parent, I just want the best for my kids, whatever they decide to do. They will choose what path they want to follow, and we will always be there to encourage them.

The buzz is still with me. I get goose bumps.

I respect all religions, but I’m not a deeply religious person. But I try and live life in the right way, respecting other people. I wasn’t brought up in a religious way, but I believe there’s something out there that looks after you.

Kids can have great passion and great ability but if you have the facilities for your particular sport that can give you the inspiration to become a sportsman.

My life here is perfect and I’m happy at Real Madrid so, of course, I want to stay as long as I can.

When I was seven I wanted to be a footballer, but when I was 14, I wanted to be a model. Look where it’s put me now!

The game is in a neutral country for both teams.

I knew it was my time to retire, when I saw Messi running past me.

I dream a lot about football and a lot of them have come true for me.

I’ll never forget where I’m from, never forget my roots. It doesn’t matter where I live. I’m English, simple as that.

I don’t think I’m really in a situation to complain, because I consider myself to be privileged to be doing what I do.

The secret to my success is practice!

I no longer criticize anyone–not even myself. I only give out positive vibes.

In critical moments, men sometimes see exactly what they wish to see.

The world needs role models, instead of critics.

The nature of how we are as human beings is that we’re much more interested in being critical rather than praising something.

Imagine a world where unbelievers were critical of what we believed but envious of how well we treated one another.

Before you criticize others, remember, they may not have had the same opportunities in life as you have had.

It’s a no win situation. It’s a mug’s game. The religions have contrived to make it impossible to disagree with them critically without being rude. They play the hurt feelings card at every opportunity.

To deliberately criticise another individual may cause an indelible stain on the critic.