Neil Moxley blown away by ‘extraordinary’ decision by Everton ace Dele Alli
Journalist Neil Moxley has noted the importance of Everton midfielder Dele Alli’s “extraordinary” interview with Gary Neville on The Overlap on Friday.
Moxley claimed that Dele’s honesty in the interview might prompt other players to open up about their issues in the face of criticism, noting the potential importance of his actions in the wider footballing world.
Dele revealed some traumatic moments in his past that have impacted his playing career including an addiction to sleeping pills and childhood trauma.
Writing in the Sunday People on 16 April (pages 60 and 61), Moxley said: “Dele Alli must feel like a weight has been lifted following his extraordinary warts ‘n all interview this week. There were rumours his problems had been prescription drugs – turns out they’re sleeping pills.
“He should know that his honesty may prompt more players to come forward. The importance of that cannot be overstated.”
Important
Dele was perhaps one of the most criticised players of the last half-decade. After his meteoric rise in the Premier League with Tottenham at just age 20, Dele’s career has not reached the heights many predicted.
However, Dele’s heartbreaking but honest interview with Neville has revealed that Dele’s past has been nothing but easy and has had a genuine impact on his career.
Sexually abused at a young age, involvement with drug dealing and an addiction to sleeping pills have made Dele’s life outside of football an unimaginable challenge and it has naturally slipped into his football life.
Following the interview, Dele was met with a wave of online support from fans and fellow teammates all showing their support for the 27-year-old. The interview was something of a reality check for many football fans who have been guilty of criticising Dele’s work ethic and interest in the game.
Moxley is correct in his claim that the importance of his openness shouldn’t be understated. Footballers often do not open up about their issues and mental health struggles, so hopefully Dele’s honesty can be an inspiration for footballers who feel they need to share their struggles in the public eye.
For now, Dele is focused on pre-season with Everton as they build on from their relegation near-miss last season.
In other Everton news, last season’s Ligue 1 loanee is set to return to Everton after the French side claimed they cannot re-sign the Portuguese international.