The story starts with Reuben at 15, juggling school and training with Barnsley’s promising youth team.

He unexpectedly receives a call-up to the senior team and makes his debut at just 15 years and 45 days, breaking a long-standing record.

Early Struggles and Missed Opportunities

Despite the initial hype, Reuben’s career didn’t progress as expected.

Injuries hampered his development, and a change in training methods caused him to lose his explosive pace.

He faced resistance when coaches tried to convert him to a different position.

A Devastating Injury and Mental Health Struggles

A severe Achilles tendon injury became a turning point.

The long recovery process paired with a lack of support took a toll on Reuben’s mental health, leading to suicidal thoughts.

He describes feeling lost and unable to cope.

Trials, Setbacks, and Perseverance

Despite numerous trials at various clubs, his fitness and mental state made it difficult to secure a permanent position.

He battled self-doubt and the harsh reality of his declining abilities.

Finding Hope Again

The pandemic offered a chance to reset.

Reuben focused on fitness and overcame some of his mental demons.

He briefly played for a non-league team but another knee injury shattered his hopes of returning to professional football.

Life After Football

At 27, Reuben made the difficult decision to leave football behind.

He faced a period of adjustment and struggled to find a new direction.

However, he found support from loved ones and is now focused on building a future with his partner and young daughter.

Sharing his Story to Help Others

Despite the challenges, Reuben remains positive.

He’s grateful for the help he received and believes his experiences can be valuable to young players.

He’s actively seeking opportunities to work with young footballers and support their mental well-being.

Reuben’s story is a cautionary tale of the pressures faced by young athletes and the importance of mental health support within the sports world.

His resilience and determination to carve a new path offer an inspiring message of hope.