Life as a Wag in the transfer window
What is life like for footballers' families during the transfer window where a last-minute deal means you need to uproot your life and move hundreds of miles?
The transfer window, a twice-yearly period in English football when clubs can buy, sell and loan players, is a time of constant change and relocation for those in the game. For players like Owen Dale, this means frequent moves, sometimes across the country, with little warning. Owen's current partner, Jessica Beaumont, has had to adapt to this lifestyle, moving five times in five years with Owen.
They had only just moved into their first house together when Owen's loan deal to Portsmouth, over 200 miles away, was finalized. Jessica had to quit her job and social life to support Owen, often finding herself alone when he was on away games. Despite the challenges, Jessica has found some positives, such as making friends with other players' partners who provide support during Owen's absence.
Owen's career has taken him through League One and the Championship, with recent loan spells at Plymouth Argyle. His future remains uncertain, as he is currently a free agent. Jessica, now working in social media, prioritizes Owen's career, understanding that his success is the main focus. While footballers in the Premier League can earn high salaries, life in the lower leagues can be very different, often making it difficult for players' partners to maintain a stable life.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Sport's reporting — not their text. Machine-written; read the original for the full account.
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- Life as a Wag in the transfer window bbc.co.uk
