Jordan Henderson was close to being cut before making it as a professional, former Sunderland coach Ricky Sbragia has revealed.
Liverpool captain Henderson moved to Anfield from his hometown club in 2011, and has since won the Champions League and is on the verge of winning the Premier League.
But in his teen years, a professional deal at Sunderland was in the balance, but it was Henderson's well-known dedication and attitude which swung the decision in his favour, says first-team coach at the time Sbragia.
JORDAN HENDERSON AT SUNDERLAND
- Appearances: 79
- Goals: 5
- Assists: 11
Statistics in all competitions according to Transfermarkt
'There was one professional contract still to be handed out, and it was a straight choice between three of the academy lads,' Sbragia told The Sun.