I developed a mechanism so that whatever mistakes I made I would bounce straight back. Whatever was happening off the pitch I could put it to one side and maintain my form. Call it mental resilience or a strong mind but that is what we mean when we talk about experience in a football team.
When I talk about the importance of the institution of marriage I think of the commitment and the significance of standing in front of those closest to you and promising fidelity to your partner 'til death do you part.'