Dominic Calvert-Lewin says it is difficult for young players to express themselves under the "magnifying glass" of being a Premier League footballer.
That led to some criticism, including on social media, but Calvert-Lewin says players should not be afraid of having a passion away from the pitch.
"We might play football but we're human beings too," he told GQ magazine.
"It's difficult for young players to express themselves and live a life which is under the magnifying glass. Sometimes you feel like you can't let your hair down or feel free as a human being.