PLAYER STORY
“The first challenge is asking for help”
Rob Milsom
Beneficiary Liaison Officer Rob Milsom on financial realities, identity and breaking down barriers
Former professional footballer Rob Milsom enjoyed a career spanning more than a decade across the Premier League and EFL before transitioning into coaching and player support. Drawing on his own experiences of injury, career uncertainty and planning for life after football, Rob now works as Beneficiary Liaison Officer at The Players Foundation, helping current and former players access support, guidance and practical assistance.
For many footballers, the greatest challenge isn’t the final game. It’s everything that comes afterwards.
In this interview, Rob Milsom discusses the two issues he sees most often among current and former players: financial uncertainty and the loss of identity that can accompany leaving the game.
He challenges common misconceptions about footballers and money, highlighting that the vast majority of players spend their careers outside the Premier League and often face the same financial pressures as anyone else. Rob also explains why preparing for a second career is essential, particularly given how quickly injuries or contract decisions can end a playing career.
As Beneficiary Liaison Officer at The Players Foundation, he now spends much of his time building relationships with former players and helping break down the psychological barriers that can prevent people from seeking support. His message is simple: there is no judgement, no stigma and no shame in asking for help.
INTERVIEW
“It’s vital to build trust.”
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