John Wilkinson shares his thoughts on the (RED) campaign, settling down in Singapore with a family and his love for the game.

Nike (RED) Campaign

Hi John, thanks for being here with us today. To start off, how do you feel about being a Nike (RED) campaign ambassador?

I feel honoured to be part of the Nike (RED) campaign, and hope to bring a greater understanding of HIV/ AIDS to Singapore, especially the youth here.

How can football help in spreading the message?

Football is a global game – being played, watched, and talked about in almost every country – the perfect vehicle to promote this campaign.

How does it feel wearing the (RED) laces? Will you be wearing them for the current S-League season?

I feel a strong sense of responsibility being one of the Nike (RED) ambassadors, having worn the red laces for a while now. I think they look cool and will definitely be wearing them as often as I can, and not just for the S-league games.

Personal Life

How did you first get into the game?

Like most of the boys growing up in England, I was thrown a football as soon as I could walk and haven't stopping kicking it nearly thirty years on. Growing up, there was never any doubt in my mind what I wanted do, and everything else had to take a back seat.

What made you decide to do this as a career, and what challenges have you faced along the way?

Wanting to be a professional player and being one are two different things. There are literally thousands of lads to compete with, so if you get a serious injury (which was what happened to me) there is always someone to take your place. At the end of the day, mental strength is the most important asset to an athlete.

How do you feel you’ve contributed to football here?

It's been a successful three years in the national team and I've really enjoyed playing in the big games. I would like to think that I've added strength, flexibility and energy into the side.

What is the best and worst thing about being a professional football player?

Worst thing – Crappy pitches.

Best thing – I have the best job in the world.

What have you grown to love about Singapore and what do you miss about England?

Singapore's my home now. I have chosen to build my base and family here. But I have also left behind my mother and sisters in England, and missed the growing up of my seven nieces and nephews.

What do you do during your free time?

When I'm not with my daughters, I like to paint. It's a form of escapism for me, and allows me to express my creativity.

So what’s the secret to keeping yourself fit enough to last the long season?

Everyone's physique is different. One thing I've learned recently about my body is that I feel much lighter and fresher if I always keep it in a state of activity. I try to never have two days of complete rest in a row. Even if it’s a day off, I will do something to get my heart rate up – be it tennis, swimming, Pilates, or even just chasing my elder daughter around.

Name some essential items you have in your training bag.

I always have a pair of Nike Cushioned Comfort Crew Socks to keep the blisters at bay, and a pair of Nike Base layer shorts to wear under my match/training shorts. They help keep me in order. There are also other items such as a pair of shades and toiletries.

With the World Cup coming, who would you like to see in the finals and why?

I can't wait until the World Cup is upon us. It's going to be amazing to see if England will lift the World Cup again after so long.

If Singapore doesn’t get to broadcast the games here, what will you do to get your football fix?

I hope that FIFA and the powers that be can sort out the viewing rights here. Otherwise, I guess I'll have to try and watch it on the internet.