“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.”

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.

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.

I don’t have time for hobbies. At the end of the day, I treat my job as a hobby. It’s something I love doing.