It's always difficult not playing games and that match fitness

Yes — that quote is correctly attributed to Gary Cahill, the English professional footballer and former England national team defender, best known for his time at Chelsea FC and Bolton Wanderers.

“It's always difficult not playing games and that match fitness and sharpness is something you always lack when you don't get that opportunity.”
— Gary Cahill

Context and Background

Gary Cahill made remarks like this during press interviews when discussing periods in his career when he wasn’t a regular starter — particularly during his later years at Chelsea, when competition for defensive positions was intense.

He was addressing the challenge that professional players face when they’re not consistently in the starting lineup: even though they train hard, match fitness — the combination of physical readiness and real-time sharpness — can only be maintained through actual game play.

Interpretation

Cahill’s words reflect a professional athlete’s frustration and realism:

• Training can keep a player fit, but not “match-fit.”

• Game experience is essential to rhythm, timing, and confidence on the field.

• The lack of opportunities can impact performance, regardless of effort or professionalism.

Summary

This quote encapsulates Cahill’s honest and grounded understanding of the demands of top-level football — that even elite players must continually play to maintain peak form, and that mental and physical sharpness fade without the rhythm of real competition.