He may now be plying his trade in the Premier League with Bournemouth, but it wasn't that long ago that Chris Mepham thought his footballing dream was over.
The Hammersmith-born was 14 years old when he was released by Chelsea - leaving his aspirations in tatters.
As is the case with many youngsters, the first hint of rejection makes you fear the worst as far as your future career is concerned, and Mepham says that it had a huge impact on his confidence.
Speaking to Sky Sports he said: "I sort of felt like my time in football was done.
"As I would do, obviously, getting released from Chelsea.
"Going on trial at QPR, Watford and getting turned away - you question your own belief and where you want to be. At that time I didn't feel confident in football. I just felt like carrying on trying would be a waste of time.
How Birmingham City's points deduction could impact QPR, Brentford, Millwall and others
"Luckily, I had a change of heart and went for that Brentford trial and I'd like to think it has paid off.
"When I joined North Greenford, in my head I knew that was it really for me. I had the opportunities and was turned away, so where do you go next? Little did I know it would take me here."
Keep up to date with the latest news, features and exclusives from football.london via the free football.london app for iPhone and Android .
Available to download from the App Store and Google Play .
