Maxim: You’re heavily involved with Disney’s new game, Split/Second Velocity. How come?
SWP: I got involved with it because I’m really into computers in the first place. They gave me an early copy of the game before it was advertised and I was allowed to play it and give feedback on it. It’s something I got really attached and addicted to.
Is it something that you and the Man City boys or England boys would play in between training sessions and while you’re travelling to matches?
Yeah, I think the way the game is balanced and its competitive nature should bring a few of us together, sure.
You like it then?
Yeah, I think it’s good. It’s like an adult version of Mario Kart.
There ya go, there’s their box quote then!
[Laughs] Yeah, good idea!
Let’s talk football then, Shaun. If you were Capello, why would you pick you for the final 23-man squad?
It’s a tricky one really. You want the players that are playing well to go and represent their country to be honest with you. I would just be happy for anyone who goes. I’ll obviously be disappointed if I don’t go, but if the two wingers that do go are playing well and it’s going to benefit the country, then I’ll be happy and turn into a football fan.
But what have you got that Aaron Lennon and Theo Walcott haven’t got?
Every player in the 30-man squad has got something special about them. Capello will be thinking about our individual qualities but also about how we can make an impact on each game.
If you do make it on the plane, what will be the three essential things in your suitcase?
My toothbrush. A pair of boxers. And films.
Who do you room with when you go away?
We normally just room on our own now.
No! I thought it was mandatory that all footballers roomed with each other? I’m astounded.
It used to be when I was coming through the ranks, but it’s not now.
Blimey. Is it better or worse being on your todd?
It’s better in some ways. Some players like to go to bed at 8 o’clock, some players like to go to bed at 10 o’clock, so it helps if you have separate rooms really.
Rock ‘n’ roll. Are you an 8pm-er or a 10pm-er?
At the moment I’ve been up late playing Split/Second! But I’m usually in bed by ten, especially if it’s the night before a game.
Who’s the funniest member of the England squad?
There isn’t one specific peron. When we sit around having dinner and socialising everybody likes a joke, no-one really stands out.
You’re all one happy unit then. Bet Capello likes that…
Yeah, he’s definitely got us together. We spend a lot more time together under Capello and I like it.
Is he dead strict? Are you scared of him?
Yeah, he’s strict, but within reason. Mainly punctuality and stuff. He makes sure everything runs smooth – and it’s working because we’re not really losing.
How different is he from Mr McClaren?
Well, they will be different because Capello’s Italian and McClaren’s more English, so their styles are always going to be different.
Who’s the best player you have ever seen play?
Zidane – he had everything. He was playing in full speed while everything was moving in slow-motion around him. He could always dictate and predict what was coming next.
Who’s the best player you’ve played against?
I’d have to say Ashley Cole or Wayne Bridge.
Who’s the best player you’ve played with?
Didier Drogba. He’s such a handful. No-one likes playing against him.
Last question: Is your dad Ian unbearable to watch the football with or is it always a good laugh?
It’s definitely a good crack. How you all see him on the screen is how he is exactly off it.
Good luck making the squad, Shaun.
Thanks, Maxim.
*The hugely anticipated, award-winning arcade racing game Split/Second: Velocity from Disney Interactive Studios is available on PS3, Xbox 360 and PC from 21st May 2010*
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