Owen Hargreaves has lifted the lid on a phone call he had with his former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson in the wake of the legendary manager's scathing criticism of the player in his autobiography.
Hargreaves joined United back in 2007 but managed just 39 appearances in four seasons after struggling with injury issues.
Writing in his book after he had retired in 2013, Ferguson said: "When I signed him, there was something about him I didn't like.
"He had no confidence in himself whatsoever. He didn't show nearly enough determination to overcome his physical difficulties, for my liking.
"I saw him opt out for the easy choice too often in terms of training. He was one of the most disappointing signings of my career."
Hargreaves, however, was left furious with these claims, and speaking in an interview with the Manchester Evening News he explained what happened after he read the quotes.
"I rang him, when I heard. I was surprised myself. My family were really surprised," Hargreaves said.
"I think anyone who's been around me knows that I left home at 15 alone, to go to a country where I couldn't speak the language to play football.
"I left the comfort of Bayern Munich to play for Man United because I wanted to represent Man United, to play for Sir Alex and be part of that great team.
"I never took the easy step. I played for a country I wasn't even born in because I wanted to be the best."
Was Hargreaves Ferguson's worst ever signing? Comment below
Hargreaves insists the chat with Ferguson was positive, and believes part of the reason the Scot was so upset was because he went on to join United's bitter rivals Manchester City.
He added: "I probably never should have been a professional football player, based on my start! But I worked my way and, obviously, didn't finish the way I wanted. A lot of things went into that.
"As much as it was disappointing for him not having me play - because when I was fit, he played me all the time.
"I told him on the phone, I promised him, it broke me more than it did him. Because that was my career.
"To this day, I haven't done a day of sport since. I can't because of my knee.
"If you just forget the football side, my career changed from one day to the next and for a young man chasing a ball around all of his life, it was a pretty significant day.
"I haven't been able to play sport like that since. To say it went the way I envisioned would be a lie.
"We had a good chat about it. Obviously, it stays private. I was surprised by what he said. I don't think it helps when you go and play for your rivals [City]."
