Ahead of this weekend’s clash, Showmax caught up with Sierra Leone-born Crystal Palace centre-back Trevor Chalobah to chat about life off the football field.
Chalobah, who is currently on loan from Chelsea, opens up about his favourite pre-game meals, his favourite music genre, his skincare routine, and much more during a chat with Showmax.
What’s your go-to meal before you prepare for any game?
I would say chicken pesto pasta. That has always been my pre-match meal a day before the game. On match day, however, I’ll have salmon and rice.
What kind of music would you play in the changing rooms?
I’m not in charge of playing the music in our changing rooms, but if I were, I would play gospel music. I love gospel music. It’s my go-to. I love Naomi Raine. She’s very good and has a great voice.
Crystal Palace versus Chelsea, which fans do you think cheer louder and better?
South London fans can cheer the whole game. You can feel the energy and they really help the team. They sing the entire game, which is very good.
What do you miss most about West London?
They have a lot of passionate fans. When a goal is scored, the fans are very up for it, especially in derby or emphatic games. When we played against Man United last year and were 2-0 down and then won 4-3, it was probably the best atmosphere I had ever experienced at Stamford Bridge. I felt the love from Chelsea fans. They even had some songs for me, which was great.
Are there any hidden gems in West London that you loved visiting?
There is a nail and beauty bar in Putney where I love to do a manicure and pedicure. I would say that it is my favourite place. I tend to do a mani and pedi every three weeks, get a foot massage, and just chill. It’s nice.
With the frequency of games you play, I am sure manicures and pedicures are very important.
We need to look after our feet. We get kicked all the time.
Which of Crystal Palace’s three kits do you love the most, and would wear on a date?
I think the home kit is very nice. The style and patterns on it are very nice. There’s also a nice contrast with the red and blue, which fits in very well.
Have you tried wearing any of the kits on a date?
Not yet, but I think I could do it. On holiday I definitely would.
How important is a skincare routine for you?
For me, skincare is super important. Looking after yourself, keeping fresh, smelling good, and looking good on and off the pitch is important.
Do you have a match day ritual?
I just do a little prayer and listen to some gospel music before the game. I speak to the Lord and ask him to guide me and protect me during the game. And he always does well, through the good and the bad.
What are your hopes and ambitions for the season?
To try and get as many games as I can. I am established in the Premier League now and so I am ready to bring that experience to the field. I just want to go out and enjoy my football and play as many games as possible.
