For the first time, the Today programme has interviewed the anonymous Guardian columnist known as The Secret Footballer , who writes anonymously about the realities of life as a Premiership footballer.

In the interview, he talks about people's perception of footballers, wages, WAGs and depression.

"I hope people will question the status quo because not all footballers are uneducated millionaires with no common sense and nothing to say for themselves," he said.

He added: "A great part of writing under anonymity is that most football fans will hear you out."

The Secret Footballer wishes to remain anonymous and would not meet presenter James Naughtie face to face. They communicated via instant messaging, with the player's answers voiced up by an actor.

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