Champion Q&A: Michael Sheen
“I want to be a part of something truly inspiring that makes a real difference to people’s lives”
When did your love of football begin?
On the street, in the park, playtimes at school. Every waking hour, every possible chance. Then in kit with proper boots. Name in the paper. Wanting to be Keegan. Wanting to be Toshack. Match Of The Day. The Big Match. Panini stickers. Until it was too dark to see the ball. 10 more minutes…
Why are you becoming a Homeless World Cup Champion?
The Homeless World Cup provides an incredible platform for those players who have faced so much in their lives, they get to demonstrate not only their skill and passion for the beautiful game but also tell their story. They show the public that there is so much more to homelessness. I want to be a part of something truly inspiring that makes a real difference to people’s lives – and that’s what the Homeless World Cup does.
How do we end homelessness?
Firstly we have to decide if we’re just managing it or actually trying to solve it. Also by understanding it’s more than getting people into buildings. There has to be proper support available. And to look at what was achieved during the pandemic and ask why there can’t be the same sense of urgency and motivation at any other time.
If you could wake up with the skills of any footballer, past or present, whose skills would you adopt?
After Kevin Keegan, Glen Hoddle became my football hero. Those awe-inspiring long passes! And of course who wouldn’t want to play with the passion of Gareth Bale with a Welsh jersey on his chest. So a mixture of all of them please.
Tell us something people might not know about you.
I have met Pele!