Michael Branch has a career storyline unlike any other footballer. Debuting at 17, the Liverpool native was expected to be Everton's own household name as teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United dominated the English footballing landscape. Praised as a generational talent, the pressure placed upon Michael would ultimately contribute toward a diminishing love for the game and an early retirement. Following his exit from the game, Branch would spend some time in prison, yet has since gotten involved with Everton in the Community to provide support in the Liverpool area and has started a business as a fitness and well-being coach. I sat down with the man himself to learn about his career, and now you can listen to my interview with the man himself as Michael opens up about issues pertaining to mental health and player care in football. Be on the lookout for future episodes as Podcasts from the Pitch takes a closer look at player care and transitional resources in modern world football. Enjoy!
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