Former England goalkeeper David James has raised concerns about the use of snus among football players, drawing from his personal experience with the tobacco product. Snus, a small pouch containing tobacco that is placed under the lip, releases nicotine into the bloodstream. The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has reported a growing number of players using snus, leading to concerns about addiction and its potential impact on players’ performances.
David James expressed his worries about snus, stating that he believes it has a detrimental effect on players’ performance. Having tried snus himself in the 1990s, he later used it as a way to quit smoking during his playing career. Although snus is illegal to sell in the United Kingdom, its use is not against the law.
The PFA, in collaboration with Loughborough University, is currently conducting a study to investigate the prevalence and effects of snus among football players. Accrington Stanley manager John Coleman has voiced support for an outright ban on snus in football, highlighting the difficulties in monitoring its use among players.
West Ham forward Michail Antonio shared his personal experience with snus, expressing his dislike for it after trying it twice. He described feeling lightheaded and nauseous, emphasizing the reasons why players might turn to such stimulants due to the pressures of football and life. Antonio noted that clubs generally do not oppose snus use, as it is not illegal or considered a banned substance in the game.
The debate around snus in football reflects broader concerns about the health and well-being of athletes and raises questions about the potential risks associated with the use of such products. The ongoing study by the PFA and Loughborough University aims to provide valuable insights into the prevalence and impact of snus use in the world of football.
Read more: Mount Marapi: Eleven hikers killed as volcano erupts in Indonesia
1 Comment