guys take a look at this piece

My brother and I were very good at football and I believe my brother would have made it. But stories like this made our parents focus on our studies rather than football.

Yes we will never have the money and adoration but have a much longer career and job security

It makes you realise just how good players must be at the top level when you see some highly regarded players fall away as is highlighted in that article.

Everyone went to school with that one lad who was by far the best player out of everyone and was destined to make it, but then didn't. Lad I went to school with was having trials at Arsenal aged 10 or 11. Went to a secondary school renowned for football. I google him every now and then. He was at Millwall a few seasons ago, but I think he's playing non-league now.

He was a quality player at school.

Just had a quick search. He was playing for Arsenal at 7, but they didn't take him on full time because he was too small. Ha!

Two fellas I know/know of from around our area haven't done too bad for themselves.

Michael O'Connor lived not far from me growing up, same age as my youngest brother. He was always destined to make a career for himself. Hasn't done too badly. He's played for several Football League clubs and think he's currently with Port Vale. His older brother was a smashing player too but never really got the opportunity.

The other is Sammy Clingan, again, has played for a fair few Football League clubs, but now plies his trade north of the border with Kilmarnock.

Both internationals too, so none too shabby.