I've matured - just growing up and learning more about my sport and more about myself.

Understanding how to compete better has really made a difference.

Learning disabilities do not go away, but you learn how to adapt. You may have to work a little bit harder; it may take a long time. You just may do it differently - but you can do it.

It's cool because here everybody has the same goal. We're all competing for our countries. We're all coming down here to do our best. And we all are the best athletes in our own countries.

Even though arguably I could have done much better at school, I'd decided at a young age that I was going to be a professional sportsman at some sport. And at that stage, there was a bit of luck: I was fortunate to meet the right people at the right time to get me to where I am now.

It's hard because, throughout your whole career, you're known as the top player, the best on your team, you're playing the most minutes, and then you might not get in the game. You don't know when you're going to get in the game.

It's a great thing because I've said to my lad, 'What do you want to do today - football, shopping, playing a game?' and he says, 'I want to bake with you, Dad.' And he loves it, baking with me.

Throughout my football career, I've always been somebody who's been very aware, and I know when the camera is on me, and I know how to be polished. I can see how that might come off as disingenuous.