I didn't want to be the rebel who was bottom of the class, so I worked hard. They wanted me to stay on for A-Levels, but football came calling - that was my real love.

I always wanted to be a winner, to score goals. There was no massive bravery in terms of my mum passing away and stepping up. I just wanted to score. I know everyone would have given me a pass on it if I hadn't taken it. But I'd have had the hump with myself if I'd shirked it.

In terms of not retiring? I don't want to leave and think to myself, "Maybe I should have stayed a bit longer". I'm dwelling on it. I have turned down a few Premier League offers. But the fact is, after being at Chelsea for so long and a year with Manchester City, I don't want to get involved in a relegation dogfight.

I'm not silly. I understand that, with age and at different parts of your career, you have different challenges.

I always dedicate my goals to my mum. I lost her a couple of years ago. She was my biggest supporter and is always with me.

I think as far as kids go, you just have to work hard. Work on your skills, keep focused.

For present buying, I go to Harrods because there are great personal shoppers, who point me in the right direction.