Show Notes
Former Ireland international footballer Keith Treacy chats with me about the highs and lows of his career in professional football. From growing up as a highly talented footballer in Sherif Street, Dublin with the football world at his feet, receiving offers from the likes of Man Utd & Celtic. To hanging up his boots at only 26 years old, when he should have been entering his prime.
Keith opens up on how leaving his family home at the vulnerable age of 15 to join Blackburn Rovers left him feeling homesick and depressed. Which ultimately led to him succumbing to the drinking culture which was still prominent in football back over a decade ago.
And despite developing the crippling addictions of alcohol, gambling & sex, how we went on to play 7 seasons as a senior professional coming up against the likes of Messi, Ronaldo and Pirlo to name but a few.
He gives us a fascinating insight into what life was like playing under managers such as Sam Allardyce, Graham Souness, Mark Hughes & Paul Ince, Eddie Howe & Sean Dyche. And the different approaches they used to try help him stop drinking. Going as far to say how one of them in particular probably saved his life.
Keith also chats about the pride he has playing for Ireland, winning a Nations Cup and playing against the likes of Argentina and Italy.
While Keith’s career was cut short, his story is ultimately one of redemption as he explains how, with the help of therapy, he has overcome these crippling addictions. And is now forging a career as one of Ireland’s best up and coming football pundits. Offering insightful analysis of the big Premier League and European games on the likes Virgin Media and Off The Ball.
If you are a football fan, this is an episode that will have you captivated from start to finish.
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