Neill, 45, was charged with hiding more than two million from his creditors, leaving him facing three years in prison. The trial followed years of investigation from The Insolvency Service after he was declared bankrupt.

In an interview with The Times newspaper, he spoke about how he has nothing to show from his 20-year football career, despite earning £40,000 a week between 2007 and 2009.

Neill was unable to own a home or even buy a mobile phone contract.

The Former Socceroos’ star declared bankrupt in 2016 after investing in the British film industry. His financial advisor had recommended a certain scheme and believed it would afford him tax breaks. HMRC then ordered him to pay back £400,000 after they investigated the dubious project. David Beckham, Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney had investments in the same industry.

Neill was then charged after he failed to declare the 144 acres of land around his barn when he listed his assets for repossession. The property had been bought in an attempt to improve his financial situation.

The Professional Football Association has warned that 10-20% of players go bankrupt when they retire. Craig Bellamy, Wes Brown and former Hammer, David James, have all filed for bankruptcy in recent years.