Chris O'Grady reminds us footballers are people, too

It has been an amazing few weeks at the Albion, that's for sure.

A brief stint for Nathan Jones at the helm and a good win at Fulham. David Burke has left, while Chris Hughton has arrived - immediately picking up his first win in charge at Brentford.

Loanees have returned to their parent clubs, while Greg Halford has committed to the club until the end of the season.

After the barnstorming end to the FA Cup tie at Griffin Park, all the talk was of Chris O'Grady, who came off the bench to score the Seagulls' second goal. It has certainly been an eventful season for the striker, as well as the club. Struggling initially at the Amex, then out on loan at Sheffield United, he came back with a bang.

His future is still uncertain, but in an interview with Saturday Sport on BBC Sussex he gave an honest assessment.

So often with all of us involved in the football, the game can become all-consuming and passions run high. It is that passion and dedication that is, of course, the lifeblood of the sport.

As O'Grady, however, recalled, he reminded us of one simple fact: footballers are people, too. He revealed his frustration and the struggle for his family, who weren't sure whether he was coming or going. It was an emotive five minutes or so.

The most telling quote from a brute of a man was this: "It has tested a lot of relationships in my life. Thankfully, the strongest one, my family, is still together which is the most important thing."

Well said. Wherever he goes or whether he stays. I wish him well.