Former England international Carlton Palmer has revealed he was left “in the foetal position” after being convinced by team-mates to try snus while away on Three Lions duty.
Speaking about the incident, Palmer explained he had never used the smokeless tobacco product before, but was persuaded to take it during an England camp. The ex-midfielder said the reaction was immediate and severe, leaving him badly unwell.
“I was in the foetal position,” Palmer said, describing how the effects hit him after he took the snus. He recalled feeling dreadful as his body struggled to cope with the nicotine, with the experience quickly turning into a cautionary tale rather than a team-room laugh.
Palmer’s revelation sheds light on how snus has been present around football environments for years, even at international level, and he made clear he learned his lesson the hard way.
The former Premier League player’s account also underlined how easily a moment of curiosity can go wrong, particularly with products that can deliver a strong hit to those not used to them.
