Ex-Premier League star makes shock career change as he gains wildcard entry to 'iconic' UK championship event

Having graced the Premier League stage for several seasons as a Watford player before moving into football management, Deeney will now venture into the realm of pool as a wildcard entry at the UK Open Pool Championship scheduled for May. The championship, renowned for attracting the most talented players from across Britain, will unfold in Telford from May 7 to 12.

Deeney said: “I am absolutely buzzing to play at the UK Open Pool Championship. I always fancied myself on the table at the training ground with the boys so when this opportunity came up, I jumped at the chance to put myself to the test against some of the world's top players and can't wait to compete on 7th May."

CEO of Matchroom Multi Sport, Emily Frazer added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Troy Deeney to the UK Pool Open as a wild card player. His presence will undoubtedly heighten the excitement and competitiveness of this iconic World Nineball Tour event.”

This surprising career pivot follows Deeney's brief stint in management. After departing Birmingham City as a player in 2023, he embarked on a new role as a player-coach at Forest Green Rovers last summer. However, his tenure as head coach was short-lived, lasting less than a month due to a string of disappointing results, after he took over the reins from David Horseman in December.

During his 20-year playing career, Deeney left an indelible mark, particularly during his time at Watford, where he netted an impressive 140 goals. But he had to bow out of the game with a whimper after an unsuccessful coaching stint at Forest Green.

With the UK Open Pool Championship on the horizon, Deeney's entry adds an intriguing narrative to the competition, as spectators eagerly anticipate witnessing his transition from the football pitch to the pool table.