I’ve played for seven clubs but never sung an initiation song!
FIRST FOOTBALL MEMORY...
Just playing football out the front with my brother and dad on the estate in Reading where I grew up.
BEST PLAYER I’VE PLAYED WITH...
Eidur Gudjohnsen. I played with him at Stoke and he was brilliant in everything he did with the ball.
TOUGHEST OPPONENT...
Patrick Vieira, when I was at Crystal Palace. He was my idol as a kid so I might be a bit biased! Everything about him was unbelievable. He was powerful, kept things simple but was really effective. I try to base my game on his style of play. To play against him was a dream come true. My dad always taught me to not be star-struck. He said that I deserve to be on the pitch just as much as them and they have to prove themselves to you, too. Vieira gave me his shirt after the game. It is one of my prized possessions.
FAVOURITE FOOTBALLING MOMENT...
When I was at Bury, I scored the goal in the last game of the 2014-2015 season that got us promoted to League One. That was amazing — I experienced a lot of emotions. At one stage we were going to end up in the play-offs. I had a chance in the first half which the keeper saved. I was kicking myself but the boys were saying: ‘Don’t worry, you’ll get another chance.’
SPORTING HERO...
Floyd Mayweather. He is the best at what he does. He does everything in style and is so dedicated and focused on the job at hand.
TOUGHEST AWAY GROUND...
While on loan at Hibs in 2012 I played at Hearts. That is a massive derby and Tynecastle is tough. The fans are really close to you.
THE FIRST ALBUM I BOUGHT...
I would like to say a Nas album but I couldn’t name it off the top of my head!
KARAOKE SONG...
I haven’t actually sung at any club I’ve been at. I don’t know how I’ve managed that — I’ve been very fortunate. And I haven’t got a clue what I would sing!
BEST-DRESSED TEAM-MATE...
There are a few rascals to be fair. Andy Barcham has a right go every single day. He is sharp on and off the pitch.
DREAM DINNER PARTY GUESTS...
I would go for Tupac, Malcolm X and Kevin Hart.
IF I WASN’T A FOOTBALLER...
Football is a dream job... so if I wasn’t I would like to be an astronaut!