Heaton: How I'm planning for the future
Now in the 20th season of his professional career, Tom Heaton is enjoying playing a key role as one of the senior figures in the Manchester United squad.
Having previously captained Burnley in the Premier League, our Academy graduate has long held leadership qualities and been invaluable in helping new and younger players settle into the first-team environment.
At the age of 39, Tom knows his playing days will soon be coming to an end - but what does he see as his next challenge?
Inside Carrington: Heaton’s leadership role
INSIDE CARRINGTON EP8 | Tom Heaton speaks openly about his role in the squad, our leadership group and his future plans…
Speaking during the latest Inside Carrington podcast, our vastly experienced goalkeeper mentioned that he’s always doing courses to prepare for the future - including a sporting director one recently, alongside our podcast co-host Phil Jones.
“Before that, I did an executive leadership short course from Oxford University. I’ve done my B-Licence goalkeeper coach, B-Licence outfield, A-Licence outfield, a certificate of football management from UEFA,” explains Tom.
“I’ve done a few different things over the years, just to upskill in areas off the pitch which might not fully understand.
“It’s been a good journey, I’ve met some brilliant people along the way. I’m still not 100 per cent sure what direction I’m going to go in once I’ve finished playing.
“I still feel quite good at this moment in time but, of course, it’s coming at some point. I’m open minded is the honest answer.”
The latest episode of Inside Carrington is available to watch now here.