Ryan Mason's career has been a triumph of faith and patience, qualities which will prove equally valuable as he begins the path back to full health.
Hull City's record signing, Mason was born in Enfield and spotted at the age of six by former Tottenham midfielder Micky Hazard at one of his summer Soccer Schools in Hertfordshire.
Hazard took him to Spurs, who snapped him up and nurtured him through the youth ranks. In one season, playing as a No 10, he scored more than 50 goals in all competitions.
But Mason would be into his 20s before he became an established part of the first-team squad under Mauricio Pochettino.