The Premier League, Championship, League One, League Two and National League football seasons have ended and with it has come the usual string of transfer news, analysis and opinion dissecting every aspect of the campaign.
What can often be lost behind the headlines is the human element, the people who get up every morning and work hard to bring us the game we love. From players to managers, backroom staff to journalists almost all of them started off with a dream and a love for the beautiful game.
We have been working with Mental Health Charity Andy’s Man Club to speak to some of the people we cheer for each week to find out how they fell in love with football and what keeps them going.
Part Two will be out in the next few weeks!
About Andy’s Man Club
“ANDYSMANCLUB has free support groups nationwide, running every Monday from 7PM except bank holidays. In these groups, men can open up about the storms affecting their lives in a safe, judgement-free and non-clinical environment. Our clubs are designed to be free of pressure, there is no obligation for men to speak, they can simply listen if they wish.”
“With thousands of men using our sessions every week, and an army of volunteers on board, the movement is continuing to grow week-by-week. We firmly believe in the power of talking and that #ItsOkayToTalk.”
“The aim of the club is to provide men with a safe space where they feel comfortable to talk and open up about their experiences in a room free of judgment.”
To find out more visit their website here
Andy Whing – Barrow Manager
Andy is currently the manager of Barrow, having taken over the club in January 2025. He has transformed the Bluebirds recording an impressive 1.50 ppg in League Two. He has previously had spells at Solihull Moors and Banbury.
We spoke to Andy about his motivation and love for the beautiful game
What made you fall in love with football?
My family are all big in to football and massive Aston Villa fans so the Villa made me fall in love with football and had a season ticket there from about 5 years old.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Enjoy and live in the moment, I think we’re all guilty of it now and especially society we all want the next thing or the next step up. And because of that we don’t enjoy the journey or live in the moment so I would definitely encourage the next generation to do that.
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
Many people in football did and obviously my family but the one person who inspired me the most was my cousin Charlotte who was born with a brain tumour and had 100’s of operations and was always in and out of hospital, she inspired me because she never gave up, never felt sorry for herself or was ever not happy. She was the best! 💕
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
I love the thought of proving people wrong so I think that’s my personal driver to keep going and be successful especially when times are tough and they’re writing you off. I absolutely love football and it’s my release from everything.
Sam Matterface – Journalist and Commentator at ITV / talkSPORT / Bet365
Sam is a highly respected and multi award winning commentator that has covered some of the biggest games in football. His work with ITV and talkSPORT amongst others have placed him amongst the best in the industry.
What made you fall in love with football?
My dad – his thirst for it – he loved listening to it on the radio when he was working, he took us when we were kids and those were the times we had with him because he worked 7 days a week usually.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Patience, get your air miles and watch football!!!
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
Too many to mention. I had great advice and continue to get help from the best in the game. John Motson, Ian Darke, Martin Tyler, have all helped me- Gareth Southgate, Gary Newbon, Des Lynam, and Jim Rosenthal have all got in touch and said important things at the right moment. I cherish all that, and can’t thank them enough. And there’s your team mates – all of them. I am inspired Roy, Wrighty, Dicko, Ally, Glenn – these guys have won so much. And the other commentators I work with – brilliant people.
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
Football keeps me going – full stop. There’s always another match.
Gary Bowyer – Burton Albion Manager
Gary pulled off the unthinkable last season and saved Burton Albion from relegation, when many pundits and fans had already written them off. He has an impressive career that includes spells at Blackburn Rovers, Bradford City, Blackpool, Salford City, Dundee FC, Derby County Academy and more. With hundreds of games under his belt his experience and knowledge has solidified him as one of the greats of the EFL.
What made you fall in love with football?
Watching my Dad play for Nottingham Forest and winning the European Cup twice.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Enjoy it . As there is too much pressure put on players now
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
Brian Clough as a manager and John Robertson as a player
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
My family as they are my ‘why’
Graham Coughlan – Boston United Manager
Graham is currently the manager of Boston United in the National League and has impressed since joining the club in November, steering them to safety against the odds. He has also had spells at Newport County, Mansfield Town and Bristol Rovers. He also has had an impressive playing career that includes the likes of Sheffield Wednesday, Swindon Town, Blackburn Rovers, Rotherham United, Southend United, Burnley, Plymouth Argyle and Shrewsbury Town amongst others.
What made you fall in love with football?
We needed nothing other than a ball and 4 jumpers for goalposts.
It was a game we could all play and take part in on our street.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Honest hard work goes a long way in this game.
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
Bad players getting rewarded inspired me so much I began to really appreciate the value of honest hard work
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
Probably my resilience. My upbringing on the streets my experience in knowing bad times are easily turned round but most of all my love for the game
Brian McDermott – Manager – Sporting Director & More
Brian has a wealth of experience on his CV, having developed as a player through the 80s at Arsenal, Fulham, Oxford United, Huddersfield Town and more he took this into his coaching career. He has been manager of Reading, Leeds United, Woking and Slough as well as working at Arsenal and Hibernian
What made you fall in love with football?
I loved Jimmy Greaves as a player. The way he played the goals he scored. He floated across the pitch
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Live one day at a time . Accept the bad days and bounce back. Enjoy the journey as much as you can. Try not to over think . Prepare yourself each and every day to give the best you can. Have a daily routine to get yourself into the best possible head space , each and every morning . “ Win the morning win the day . Journal every day . Write a gratitude list every day
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
Paul McGee a player from Sligo Rovers the first team I ever supported and of course Jimmy Greaves
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
When things are tough find someone you can talk too . Share your feelings both good and bad.
Adam Jackson – Lincoln City Footballer
Adam has been with current club Lincoln City since 2020 and witnessed the highs and lows of football. He has previously spent time at Barnsley, Hibernian, Coventry City, Halifax Town, Middlesbrough and Hartlepool.
What made you fall in love with football?
I think it was the joy and happiness I felt from playing football when I was really young. Just on the streets and local parks and fields with all my friends.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
My message would be to enjoy it while you can as it goes so fast! Ignore all the outside noise and listen to people who matter to you and care about you.
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
I can’t pick one particular person who inspired me but I do remember when I had just joined Middlesbrough academy I was ball boy for a couple of seasons and it included an amazing run to win the Carabao Cup and then a run to the final of the Europa League. I remember the amazing atmospheres at all the games and that inspired me to want to be a professional footballer and play in them types of games and atmospheres myself.
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
These days the thing that keeps me going through the tough times is definitely my family. They are always here to support me and take my mind off things and put things into perspective.
Jack Baldwin – Northampton Town Footballer
Jack has been with current club Northampton Town since 2024, having joined from Ross County. His career also includes Bristol Rovers, Sunderland, Salford City, Peterborough United, Hartlepool United and Faversham Town.
What made you fall in love with football?
I can’t really remember my earliest memory of football that made me fall in love with the game to be honest. But for as long as I can remember, I was always kicking something around the street. If it wasn’t a football, it was a bottle or a can that was on the floor. Just anything.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
My message to the younger generation coming through is to work hard, stay humble but most of all, try to enjoy it as much as you can, because in the blink of an eye it can and will be all over.
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
Where I grew up (Barking), John Terry was the latest big name to be a top player. He also attended the same school I did when he was younger. So it gave me inspiration knowing a local lad had gone on to play at the very highest level!
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
To be brutally honest, I’ve had a lot more tough times than good in my career. I’ve learned not to get too low, or too high (when the wins do come). But I just think back to my 8 year old self (the same age as my son now and he is a mini-me) and what he would have done to be in the position I am now.
Ekrem Konur – Football Transfer Expert and Journalist
Ekrem is one of the most respected sports journalists and football transfer experts around and is often lightning quick to the breaking news.
He writes:
“I am Ekrem Konur, a journalist specializing in football transfer news. I started my journalism career in 2014 and have worked with respected media outlets such as BeIN Sports, Marca, AS, and Ajansspor. Currently, I work with Rocket Sports, providing exclusive transfer content to around 15 different news sites. Additionally, I operate as a freelance journalist, collaborating with newspapers and websites in Spain, France, and Türkiye. Covering global football markets has allowed me to gain deep insights into the game beyond the pitch, understanding its dynamics, personalities, and emotions.”
What made you fall in love with football?
Football has always been my passion. From a young age, stepping onto the pitch, feeling the energy of the game, and seeing how deeply people love football made me fall in love with it. I realized that football is not just about skill, but also about character, and that only made my love for the game grow even stronger.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
With discipline, determination, and love for what you do, you can achieve anything. Football is not just a game played on the field—it teaches life lessons. Be patient, learn from your mistakes, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of the game.
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
One of my biggest inspirations was [Puyol, Totti, Del Piero and Gerrard]. Their dedication, work ethic, and presence on the pitch always motivated me. They taught me that football is not just played with skill but also with heart and passion.
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
Challenges are always part of the journey, but my passion for football never fades. Even in the hardest moments, stepping onto the field, competing, and feeling the support from fans and loved ones gives me strength. The love for the game itself and the people around me keep me going.
Sanny Rudravajhala – Journalist and Broadcaster
Sanny is a well respected journalist and broadcaster that has worked across some of the biggest companies in the industry including Sky Sports, BBC 5Live Sport, the Guardian Sport and FotMob amongst others. He is also one of the most approachable in the industry and willing to give advice and help those coming through.
What made you fall in love with football?
Playing with my neighbours in their garden and then Euro 96 really captured my imagination. I was 10 so it was the perfect time, and I watched as many matches as I could and I remember re-watching the BBC story of the tournament one hour film on repeat too. Anguished cries as Switzerland equalised in our opener, in what must have been my first proper England game, Gazza against Scotland, the 4-1 Netherlands, penalties against Spain and my word, that semi-final. It captured the nation – imagine what it did to a 10-year-old’s mind!
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Well, I am a weird one in that I came to this all through a career change, so in a way I’m still part of that generation! But what has got me ahead is reflecting on my work and really focusing on how to get better and learning all that I can from the people around me who have much more experience than I have and using all of that to keep getting better. The best advice is say yes and be reliable. You can’t get experience just sitting around sending emails and hoping stuff will happen. I did lots of voluntary stuff and still try do the most I can in any roles I have now, as I did when I first got paid work too!
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
My co-presenter when we were making our Out of our League audio documentary series all about what happened to Bury FC. Mark Crossley at Radio Manchester taught me everything you could ever want to know about audio – without him I don’t know where I’d be.
Mark was patient but also a perfectionist. The industry is shrinking all the time and learning how to do something properly and knowing why it’s the proper way is something that is harder to do because we are losing so many of that sort of experienced person in media. So when you find those people, learn all you can from them!
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
I was a science teacher before all of this. Any time ever gets hard, I remember that it is far easier than 30 kids with bunsen burners! Being able to work around something that you love is a privilege, so even when it’s a tough day or things aren’t going to plan or it’s all piling on top of you, it’s still a dream to be here. But you asked me on advice before and I know it’s getting tougher to get into all of this, so what I would say is it can still be tough whether you are starting out or have been in it for years and if things don’t come together in the way you want to and you’re having to do, other work on the side that makes things even harder, do you remember that it’s all helping you get better in the end, even if it’s ever a slog.
Brian Laws – Manager
What made you fall in love with football?
just loved having a kick around with my mates, every day there was a bunch of us playing football together, it’s all I wanted to do.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
You won’t make it
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
I was most inspired by my PE teacher because he kept pushing me to do more, without his inspiration I’m not sure I would have made it.
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
Winning keeps you going back for more as it’s best feeling in the world and you want more, even when things are not going well for you, a win changes everything
Matt Taylor – Former Bristol Rovers, Rotherham and Exeter Manager
Matt is an experienced EFL manager and former player. His coaching CV includes Exeter City, Rotherham United and most recently Bristol Rovers. Prior to this he was a player for clubs including Bradford City, Charlton Athletic, Exeter City, Cheltenham Town, Newport County and Colchester United amongst others.
What made you fall in love with football?
Fell in love with football because of what it felt like to play, to perform well and to win. We all played as kids for fun but as I got older the chasing of a performance/victory became an addiction.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
Football is the game that everyone plays or everyone thinks they could play. But if you’ve had the privilege of playing or working in the game you know the realities of football. The game is about people, rhythm and feel so you need passion to keep you motivated whether things are going well or not.
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
Winning keeps you going back for more as it’s best feeling in the world and you want more, even when things are not going well for you, a win changes everything
John Coleman – Manager of Waterford
With just under 1000 games under his belt as manager and a playing career spanning the 80s and 90s John is an legend in some fans eyes. He is most known for his spell at Accrington Stanley, where he managed over 800 games over two spells. He is currently manager of Waterford FC.
What made you fall in love with football?
I think it was my older brother Mike who started my love for football. Taking me out to play in the street and eventually letting me join in games with his mates.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Never treat football as a job, if you don’t love it don’t do it.
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
Obviously my brother influenced me, I was inspired by the Liverpool and Leeds teams of the 70s. As a player I remember playing against Hyde United when I was 17, there was only 6/7 hundred watching but when they scored the spectators went wild behind the goal and that made me crave to be part of that excitement, that is something that has never left me.
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
When things are tough I think back to all the good times I have had and the brilliant people I have met on my journey in football. Plus the fact you can always win your next game
Aaron Mclean – Pundit / Broadcaster / Podcaster / Former Player
Aaron is an experienced pundit and broadcaster who uses his experience from on the pitch to bring us some of the best analysis you can find. He also hosts the No Boundaries Podcast interviewing the likes of Jeremy Lynch and Mark Wright.
What made you fall in love with football?
I fell in love with football because it was a way of being with my friends and having fun. It was purely for the enjoyment.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Work hard every day and give everything. Everyday is an opportunity to improve so don’t waste it.
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
My mum was my inspiration. She worked had morning noon and night. Her work ethic inspired me to be able to do whatever i want if i was prepared to work for it.
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
Thinking positive. We all have tough times no matter who you are but positive thinking and hard work always helped me get through in football and in life.
Peter Band – Macclesfield
Peter is the assistant manager of Macclesfield, having previously been manager of Colne. He has been a huge part of the club’s success as they have picked up multiple trophies over the last few years.
What made you fall in love with football?
I’ve loved playing football as Weston Park is behind my house and we used to watch the Sunday league games when we were kids.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Believe in yourself and train hard. Have good people around you.
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
Steve Burr when we used to watch Macclesfield Town, he was one hell of a forward. But Mike McKenzie, when he picked me up from Sunday for Hyde United.
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
I’m still in football at 51, and it is a privilege to work at Macclesfield FC. I’m a winner and keep battling on.
David McNabb – Bury Manager
David is currently the manager of Bury FC having experienced the highs and lows of football. He started out in the academy at Manchester United going on to hone his skills across several clubs. He later spent time at Macclesfield Town and Bootle. He steered the club to a huge 109 point total in the North West Counties Football League last season and was crowned as Champions sealing promotion to the Northern Premier League.
What made you fall in love with football?
Football was something drummed into me by my Dad and other family members from being a kid. It was always the team element and the competition that I loved the most.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Try to enjoy it as much as possible because your career flies by so quickly.
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
I’ve never been the type to look up to a pro player for inspiration so probably my Dad. He was and still is my hero. He pushed me massively when I was younger and took me everywhere.
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
I’m a firm believer that you have to give yourself up to the team. When things get tough you need to remember that you have a responsibility to your team mates, the club you’re at and the fans. When motivation becomes a challenge that’s where discipline takes over.
Enda Minogue – Goalkeeper Dundalk
Enda is one of the brightest up and coming talents in Irish football. Currently plying his trade with Dundalk, he has also been with Athlone Town, Bohemians and Bray Wanderers.
What made you fall in love with football?
I’m not really sure where my love for football came from. Both my parents were into Athletics and I did that for a good few years but football eventually took over. My brother would’ve been playing football from an early age too so just followed him.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
One message I’d pass on is just don’t stop during the tough times. Football as a career has plenty of ups and downs along the way. You can’t get carried away in the good times but more importantly don’t like the lows consume you. Be confident to leave things in the past and focus on being your best self the next time you can.
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
Shay Given was my biggest inspiration growing up. Everything about him I wanted to recreate.
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
I’d say being grateful for the position I find myself in keeps me going. Obviously being out for a while this season I got a perspective of what it’s like bot being able to play football every week. Some people might not ever get the chance to play at this level so I’m grateful every week that I can.
Jordan Richards – Fourth Tier Fever Host
Jordan is one of our hosts of the Fourth Tier Fever podcast as well helping to manage the media side of THE DECK. He is a Grimsby Town fan who has also previously worked with The Real EFL.
What made you fall in love with football?
I never really liked football in my early years in truth. In fact, I hated it and because of that, I was quite late getting into it. I didn’t properly go to a game until I was about 11, where my dad managed to get hold of free tickets to watch Grimsby play Woking in the National League. I didn’t really grasp it the first time I went but I started to go to a few more games, and I started to appreciate it much more and the fun I had with people at the games which really changed my perspective on football for the better. Took a little convincing, but by simply going to watch my local team kept giving me a buzz that nothing else ever gave me previously.
If you could pass on one message to the next generation coming through, what would it be?
Cherish every opportunity you get. Life is about making memories and you never know when it’ll be your last, so make the most of it whilst you can with the people you know best beside you. Football in particular is perfect for that when things are going well but also generally in life as well. You only live once. Enjoy it.
Who inspired you the most when you were coming through?
My dad. He’s always had my back and he’s also been football mad himself but it was only when I got older, I appreciated the impact on my life a lot more when me and him went to games together as well as life in general. I honestly think if it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I’d love football and my club the way I do and with some struggles I’ve previously had personally, he’s always been there to put a shoulder around me during difficult times. I’ll always be grateful for him.
What keeps your passion alive when things are tough?
To be completely honest, I don’t have a great deal of stuff going on in my life. There’s only a handful of things I really care about, and following my club is right near the top of that list. I love going to games. I love meeting new people at games. I love meeting up with mates there and having a few drinks. I love making content about the club and giving a voice. I love all that. Take all that away, I really don’t know how I’d cope. Following my team is the perfect getaway from previous struggles I’ve had. It’s a massive part of me and my life and I don’t think that’ll ever change.
Keep an eye out for Part 2!
