Former Brentford defender Mark Phillips has bravely revealed his recent ADHD diagnosis in a powerful interview that sheds new light on his football career and personal challenges.
The 41-year-old, who made over 100 appearances for the Bees between 2006 and 2010, discovered he has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder just two years ago - a revelation that finally explained decades of unexplained struggles.
The Turning Point
Phillips described the moment of diagnosis as life-changing, telling The Mirror: "It was like the last piece of the jigsaw. Suddenly everything made sense - why I found certain aspects of football and life so challenging."
The former centre-back, who also played for Millwall and AFC Wimbledon, recalled specific difficulties during his playing days that now make perfect sense in light of his diagnosis.
Football Challenges Explained
"During team talks, I'd zone out completely," Phillips confessed. "The manager would be giving crucial instructions, and I'd be staring at the tactics board but not taking anything in. I'd have to ask teammates what was said afterwards."
He also struggled with the mental side of recovery between matches: "Sunday to Thursday training was fine, but the night before a game? The anxiety and overthinking were overwhelming."
Life Beyond Football
Since retiring in 2016 after a serious knee injury, Phillips has found success as a coach and podcaster, but his ADHD continued to affect his daily life in ways he didn't understand.
"I'd start multiple projects but never finish them. My brain would jump from one thing to another constantly," he explained.
A New Understanding
Now properly diagnosed and receiving support, Phillips has gained a fresh perspective on his career and is determined to raise awareness about neurodiversity in football.
"I wish I'd known earlier," he reflected. "But now I can use my experience to help others who might be struggling silently in the dressing room."
The footballer-turned-advocate hopes his story will encourage more open conversations about mental health and neurodiversity in professional sports.
