In 2001, Whitley left Manchester City on a free transfer and returned to his adopted home by signing for Wrexham, going on to be named player of the season in his first campaign.

It was during his time at Wrexham that Whitley rediscovered a passion for singing, which he says he had neglected when leaving the school choir. He returned when a solo artist visited the club to collaborate on a song.

“I wanted all the Wrexham lads to record the chorus line,” explains Whitley.

“The guy who was doing the sound liked my voice. He took me aside and asked if I would like to come and perform as a guest at a theater where the artist was performing.”

The opportunity subsequently arose to play Sammy Davis Jr in a production with a West End cast.

Whitley told BBC Sport he found himself drifting further into the world as injuries piled up, and said he “filled a void” when he retired from football.