A recent study commissioned by the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) has found that around one in five professional football players use snus, tobacco-free nicotine pouches, or both.

The research involved 628 male players from Premier League or EFL clubs and 51 Women's Super League players.

Snus, a smokeless moist tobacco pouch placed under the upper lip, is associated with higher risks of oesophagus and pancreatic cancers, cardiovascular disease, mouth lesions, and oral cancers.

Despite being illegal to buy or sell in the UK, it can still be sourced from abroad.

Eighteen percent of male players and 22% of female players admitted using snus or nicotine pouches, with many citing mental readiness and relaxation benefits.

Prominent players like Leicester City's Jamie Vardy have publicly acknowledged their use, although Vardy later ceased following negative media coverage.

Former Sunderland head coach Lee Johnson compared snus use to smoking several cigarettes at once and highlighted its addictive nature.

The study found that many players started using these products to fit in with teammates and reported challenges in quitting due to widespread availability and peer influence.

Symptoms of nicotine dependence such as irritability, anxiety, and cravings were common among users attempting to quit.

Nearly half of male players expressed a desire to quit, but most female players did not plan to give up.

The report recommends offering players personalized, external support without stigmatization for seeking help.