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For countless people anticipate indulging in their favourite holiday foods, the scene is distinctly unique for professional footballers.

During the festive period, staying in top condition and ensuring proper recovery for upcoming matches remains a priority.

A Healthier Festive Approach

Personal cook Tommy Cole, who prepares meals for top-flight footballers throughout the year, adopts a traditional yet tweaked approach for the holiday dinner.

"We aim for a 'boujee-r' and more nutritious take," he explains.

Key adjustments include taking care with oils and fats for items like crispy potatoes and stuffings, and selecting leaner cuts of meat.

"Turkey breast is preferred over the fattier dark meat," the culinary professional notes, "along with plenty of vegetables."

Powering the Busy Festive Fixture List

The Christmas period is notoriously hectic for top teams, with a congested calendar of league matches, continental competitions, and tournament matches.

"For the guys playing often around Christmas, meals are tailored to deliver required energy," he comments.

This often means increased carbohydrate intake—like extra potatoes, rice, and comparable items—to maintain stamina.

Clever Dietary Tricks

To boost nutrient intake, veggies become a key component. For players reluctant to eat their greens, the chef uses techniques.

"We might create tasty sauces with a vegetable base," he offers. "A popular katsu sauce, based on onions, carrots, and garlic."

For post-match recovery, items such as salmon or mackerel, nuts, and seeds are prioritized.

An Unexpected Journey into the Culinary World

Tommy's culinary career was unexpected. "I didn't have a big dream to be a chef," he admits.

Working a season abroad got him started, leading to professional education and subsequently preparing meals for celebrities and athletes.

His popular TikTok videos have garnered huge audiences curious about what athletes eat.

Surprising Demands and Boxing Day Traditions

Over eight years, he has received quirky orders. "I've had simple hot dogs," he notes, "which seems very basic."

For the day after Christmas, classic dishes return. "It's often fried leftover vegetables full of lots of veggies—that good stuff."

Ultimately, although Christmas dinner for footballers is tailored for performance, the goal remains the same: delivering nutritious and tasty food throughout the festive season.