It is true that professional footballers exist in a bubble, with much of their lifestyle and environment far removed from that of ordinary working people.
In the last week, we got a timely reminder that they are also human and have to deal with personal issues and emotive family matters, just like the rest of us.
This came from Kemar Roofe, who spoke on Thursday at Rangers press conference now that he is back and available for selection, following a period of illness for his newborn son.
As revealed by the Rangers striker, little Cassius was struggling with a chest infection but thankfully now he has recovered and has since gone home with his family.
The former Leeds and Anderlecht man dedicated a message of gratitiude to the doctors and nurses who looked after his boy:
“Five tough nights at the Royal Hospital for Children but the nurses and doctors on ward 2c were amazing.”
🎙️ Kemar Roofe has arrived to speak to the media.
🎙️ KR: It was obviously not nice having to rush my boy to the hospital, but thankfully he has got better now and is home.
As soon as I go home I am a Dad, once I leave the house I am a Rangers player.
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) August 12, 2021
Then speaking ahead of the Dunfermline game, Roofe again touched on the difficulty experienced as well as outlining his professional credentials and dedication to his responsibility for Rangers.
When asked about the impact of recent days and any loss of his focus, he responded:
“No, it’s okay (to focus).”
“It’s two separate worlds for me. As soon as I go back home I’m a dad and as soon as I leave the house with my Rangers kit on, I’m a footballer.”
“That’s the way I try to keep it with my family and my friends. My kids care about football and what I do but they’re not fazed about anything. It’s just normal to them.”
Roofe’s ability was sorely missed in recent games and he was unable to play against Malmo due to suspension but he will be looking to make a statement on his return on Friday evening.
A hungry, determined Kemar Roofe on the front line of the Rangers attack will go some way toward easing what has been a difficult week for the Scottish champions.