Members of the West Ham United squad discuss their main hobbies away from the football pitch, explaining what sparked their interest and advising how fellow Hammers can get involved. Today, defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka shares his love for gaming...
Can you tell us about your main hobby or interest outside of football?
Outside of football, I spend a lot of time with friends and family, as I am quite busy with football, so it is good to be able to give as much time as possible back to them. In terms of hobbies, I would say gaming. I play Call of Duty, and I’d say I’m quite good at it. There are a few of the boys [in the team] who also play it and are very good as well.
How did you get into it?
When I was younger and the weather was bad, we weren’t allowed out, so I’d have to find some sort of way to entertain myself, and I did that by gaming.
What do you like about it?
There are some challenges, which is good, and when I play with friends, it’s competitive. It’s a good way to relax away from football and take your mind off it.
Do you do it on your own or with others?
I can’t play by myself. I would play one or two games and then get bored. I have to play with friends and have a laugh.
Do you know anyone involved in it?
I don’t know anyone involved with gaming personally, but sometimes I do watch a few streamers and watch a few clips on Instagram. I couldn’t stream myself, that’s too much pressure!
Have you ever been to any big events associated with it?
I’ve never attended a gaming event, but when I was with Manchester United, we played FIFA against fans at an event in a shopping centre. It was a good experience and was quite easy.
How much time do you spend on it outside of football?
I do play quite a lot, to be honest, maybe a few hours a day.
How good are you at it?
I’m going to say I’m quite good at it, and I’m getting even better.
How much would you recommend it to people who aren’t familiar with it?
I’d recommend it quite a lot. It takes your mind off stuff, and it’s a different experience. It’s a good way to socialise and interact online.
Can you share some tips about how someone could get involved in it?
My advice is to keep on practicing, and that’s something that applies to everything you do in life, but don’t play too much!
