“As soon as I hit the ball, I know if it’s in.”

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!

He was a quiet man, Eric Cantona, but he was a man of few words.

Soccer is a magical game.

I can play in the center, on the right and occasionally on the left side.

Being a dad is more important than football.

I am always going to have problems with the paparazzi. I have had two men outside my house for the last two years, which is frightening at times, but that is my life unfortunately.

When you have kids you do grow up. I have just started realising it now-it changes the world, having children.

Help my teammates become better players out on the court in order to win more ball games.

When you play quarterback, you have to process information quickly, get the ball out of your hand to the right guy.

If we had any nerve at all, if we had any real balls as a society, or whatever you need, whatever quality you need, real character, we would make an effort to really address the wrongs in this society, righteously.

You have the ball in your hand every time when you’re a quarterback. Whether you’re handing it off or throwing to somebody, I think that’s extremely important.

I used to think I was hitting a draw at times, and the ball was still curving to the right! I still prefer to play a little fade, but I’ve had to recalibrate my visuals.

Most ball games are lost, not won.

When a batter swings and I see his knees move, I can tell just what his weaknesses are then I just put the ball where I know he can’t hit it.

When we have the ball, the other team has to run. The most important thing is for the players to be prepared to be a little bit wild.