A former Liverpool and England striker has amassed a substantial net worth after developing an impressive property empire over recent decades. The player in question enjoyed two stints at Anfield, netting an astonishing 183 goals during his time with the club. He also turned out for Leeds United, Manchester City and Blackburn Rovers before retiring in 2012.
The forward will have earned considerable sums from his football contracts but has also been generating millions off the pitch. He began investing while still in his teens and has assembled a diverse portfolio of properties. Several years ago, he even established his own academy to educate budding investors through workshops and courses.
Fowler did not wait until the conclusion of his playing days to construct his property empire, featuring in the Sunday Times Rich List on two occasions while still active. At one stage, he was even described as the 'richest sportsman living in Britain' by The Observer.
Looking back on his investment journey in 2015, Fowler revealed that former Liverpool captain Graeme Souness was responsible for planting the original idea. "I started investing in property almost by accident," he told The Guardian. "Graeme Souness put me in touch with a financial adviser who advised me to go into property."
"Since then, and I'm not embarrassed to admit this, it's my wife who's the one who has been wearing the trousers. She's the boss. She did it all while I was playing. Basically I go out and earn the money. She's happy with that concept."
The majority of Fowler's properties are located in the Liverpool area, though the precise number he owns remains undisclosed. When pressed for a rough figure, he responded: "I've got more than 10. I'm a private person. I don't like to disclose everything."
Having grown up in working-class surroundings in Toxteth, Fowler has never had any interest in exploiting his tenants, despite the notorious reputation of certain landlords.
"Some people can't afford to buy, so as a landlord you are providing a benefit for other people," he added. "You are providing a service. Some landlords have been greedy, but you certainly won't get that from me after the upbringing I had in Liverpool."