BEN Foden has described his break-up with wife Una Healy as “sad” but declared he is hoping they can remain friends.
The rugby player revealed that he has “a civil” relationship with the former Saturdays singer after their marriage split last summer.
The ex-England player said he is moving to New York tomorrow but wants the Tipperary star to visit with their six-year-old daughter Aoife and three-year-old son Tadgh.
In a new interview, Foden said of their break-up: “It’s sad what’s happened but we’re not the first couple to divorce in the public eye.
“Our relationship is actually quite good. I stay at the family home whenever I want to see the kids.
“We’re keeping it civil and hopefully we can remain friends. We’ll always have a future because she’s the mother of my children.”
The 33-year-old added: “I signed for New York Rugby United, so things are going to change. It’s just exciting — a different change of pace, something that’s really needed.
“On January 3rd I move out there for five or six months.
“I’m sure Una wouldn’t mind a little holiday in New York. She will drop the kids with me and then she can go and enjoy the sights.”
Una, 37, went public before Christmas with her new relationship with former Limerick hurler David Breen by posting a picture on Instagram with the caption: “I have tried to hide him but he’s too tall.”
And Foden said they are both moving on with their live, adding: “Una’s doing her own thing as well. It’s not for me to comment but she’s moving on.
“I’m moving on and we’re both taking it as it comes.”
Una and Ben exchanged vows in Tipperary in 2012 after four years of dating.
They welcomed daughter Aoife shortly before they wed and son Tadhg in 2015.
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The couple announced their separation in July.
Foden insisted he wants to be a “hero” to his children.
He said: “I definitely feel the pressure to be the hero. That’s the relationship I want for them as I had a close relationship with my dad.”