'My dad was a Prem and England star - But I've just broken a record in another sport'
Talk about forging your own path in professional sport.
Like father, like son, they say. Sure enough, George Mills is making a name for himself after following his famous footballing dad, Danny, into the world of professional sport.
Still, he isn’t lacing up boots or kicking balls around anywhere.
Instead, Mills has just won gold with a record-breaking performance in athletics.
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The 25-year-old produced a dominant run at the British Indoor Championships in Birmingham, winning the 3000 metres in 7:40.16. He took a staggering nine seconds off the competition's previous record to cruise home and win gold in 7:40.16.
His performance comes in the same month that he smashed the British record by clocking 7:27.92. The Brighton Phoenix star has now set his sights on the European Indoor Championships, which get underway in the Netherlands next Thursday.
Afterwards, Mills vowed to continue to strive to improve. "I came here to do a job - that was to first of all qualify and put my name in the hat again for worlds and, obviously, to win,” he said.
"When I go to races now in these championships, I'm going there to win medals, so that's what I aim to do. I really give everything to this sport and I just want to be the best athlete I can."
Mills Snr was a recognisable face in the stands at the Utilita Arena. In his professional career, he represented the likes of Leeds United, Manchester City, and Middlesbrough, while he 19 caps for England and played in the 2002 World Cup.
He was also renowned for his no-nonsense persona and fiery temper. And it’s here when comparisons can be drawn with son George, who was involved in a controversial 5000m heat at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Mills Jnr was one of four runners to hit the deck in the home straight. It led to a confrontation at the finish line, where he shoved France’s Hugo Hay before giving a passionate post-race interview.
In the meantime, his family’s football legacy has continued through brother Stanley. The 21-year-old came through the youth ranks at Everton and now plays for Oxford United in the Championship.
