Luke Matheson Discusses Football, Legacies, and Losing Ethan McLeod
Footballer Luke Matheson recently reflected on his evolving perceptions of success, losing teammate Ethan McLeod, and his aspirations beyond the pitch. At 22, Matheson believes success is no longer confined to football accomplishments.
Redefining Success in Football
Luke Matheson acknowledges a significant change in his view of success over the years. At 17, his self-worth was largely tied to his performance on the field. Now, he emphasizes diverse personal goals, such as community impact and family aspirations.
“Success for me might be becoming a father,” Matheson remarked. “I want to make an impact in the Macclesfield community and set up a charity.” His recent experiences have led him to understand that football is a part of his life, not its entirety.
Career Highs and Lows
Matheson’s journey began in League One with Rochdale, where he debuted at 15. A year later, he was a £1 million signing for Wolverhampton Wanderers. However, injuries and tough competition in the reserve league stunted his progress.
After a series of loan spells and being released without a senior appearance for Wolves in summer 2023, Matheson faced a challenging transition. He mused on the difficulty of leaving first-team football for under-23 competition, describing it as a “weird dynamic.”
Tragic Loss of Ethan McLeod
Matheson’s life took a somber turn in December 2023. Following a match against Bedford Town, he returned to Manchester, unaware that McLeod had tragically died in a motorway accident that evening.
“I was kind of numb to it at first,” Matheson recalled, describing the emotional turmoil that followed McLeod’s passing. The two had shared countless hours in rehabilitation sessions due to injuries during their time at Wolves and Macclesfield.
Remembering a Teammate
Two days after the accident, Matheson paid tribute to McLeod on social media, emphasizing the deep bond they had formed. “Ethan was one of the most genuine, incredible human beings you’ll ever meet,” he expressed.
Matheson credits McLeod’s influence for inspiring Macclesfield’s FA Cup victory against Crystal Palace, where Matheson played a crucial role. “You could feel something that day, something you can’t really put into words,” he stated. McLeod’s legacy remains a motivating force for Matheson and his teammates.
Pursuing Education Alongside Football
In addition to his on-field endeavors, Matheson values education. He graduated from the Professional Footballers Association’s sport directorship course, a decision inspired by previous injuries. “Why not start preparing now?” he questioned, highlighting his forward-thinking approach.
Looking Ahead
While targeting promotion with Macclesfield, Matheson remains committed to honoring McLeod’s memory through his actions on and off the pitch. “Our goal is to get to the play-offs,” he stated. “But personally for me, it’s about living on with Ethan’s legacy.” His story exemplifies resilience, growth, and unwavering dedication to football and the community.
