Justin Kluivert on his lockdown tips, career motivations and much more

Following Roma Women striker Amalie Thestrup's interview appearance last week, Kluivert became the latest Giallorossi player to join the charity initiative for a wide-ranging discussion and to give some advice to the next generation.

Here's what the Netherlands international had to say...

How are you coping with the lockdown?

"I doing fine. I am at home in Rome and trying to stay healthy. The important thing is for people to stay inside and hopefully we can get back to football again soon."

What is the message you want to share with young people who are perhaps facing loneliness during the pandemic?

"We are all feeling a bit lonely, but set goals and stay motivated during these hard times. You have to know this will end soon. Life will go on. So be ready for the time after the lockdown and keep in touch your family and friends."

What are you tips to stay healthy during this period?

"It is all about staying physically and mentally fit. Make sure you eat good stuff. I cook a lot. If you can't cook, now is a great time to learn. I am still training, too. I have a little garden, so I run in there. I am in lockdown with my cousin and we also play some football.

"I would suggest sticking to a routine. Get plenty of rest, but try not to sleep in too late."

You have also been playing FIFA during this downtime, representing AS Roma in the EA Sports #StayAndPlay Cup. How was that experience?

"It was pretty cool, although I didn't win. But it was fun and kept me busy. I play quite a lot of FIFA with my family and friends, but I would still prefer to play real football."

How important is family both during this time and in shaping your career?

"Very important, especially now. I couldn't succeed without my family. In terms of my career, I obviously look up to my dad [Patrick]. Everywhere I went as a kid people wanted a photo with him. I wanted to reach the top like him.

"I also have a tattoo on my arm that reads, 'If you want to lead one day, then follow'. It is important to learn from people, like my dad, who have already taken the path you wish to follow."

I also have a tattoo on my arm that reads, 'If you want to lead one day, then follow'. It is important to learn from people, like my dad, who have already taken the path you wish to follow.

- Justin Kluivert

What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career so far?

"It is probably being compared to my dad all of the time. A lot of people said I would never be as good as him. Some even said I was only at Ajax because of him. I used to tell them to come and see me play and then they'd see why I was there."

What message do you have for young footballers hoping to turn professional?

"You need to be dedicated. When I first started I just enjoyed playing, but by my early teenage years I knew the work I had to put in to succeed. I think some players turn 14 or 15 and maybe overlook what is necessary to make it as professionals. But I had a plan in my head.

"My dedication was so strong. I wasn't afraid to say no to hanging out with my friends. If you want to turn professional, you have to make sacrifices. Also school is very important as well. If I didn't do well there, I wasn't allowed to train or play."

What are some of your career goals for both Roma and Holland?

"At Roma we have a great sense of self-belief. Hopefully we can finish this season and, looking a bit further ahead, win the league. Anything is possible.

"For Holland, I just really want to win caps, and hopefully I will be selected for the Qatar 2022 World Cup."

If you could chose any player to play alongside with at Roma who would it be and why?

"I would choose my dad, for sure. We would make a great team with lots of assists and goals. I also really like Cristiano Ronaldo. I looked up to him when I was young. He was around 20 and just kept grinding away and look at him now. He is always hungry and when he doesn't score he's mad for a week."

Do you have any special pre-match routines?

"I drink coffee. I run a lot so I need those sugars. They keep me fit and energetic. I also always listen to music on the team bus. Sometimes I am the DJ in the locker room because I own all the good music!"

Which coach has inspired you the most?

"Erik ten Haag. He was my first coach during my time at Ajax. He believed in me when I was a young kid. He took me to the first team, which doesn't happen to everyone at 16. He trusted me on the pitch and helped me achieve my dream. I just wanted to work hard for him every single day."

Generation Amazing is a non-profit organisation established during Qatar's bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. AS Roma and Generation Amazing signed a four-year strategic global partnership in 2019. They can be followed via Instagram @ga4good.