Leicester City skipper Wes Morgan has said that his footballing story can act as a source of inspiration for those looking to break into the game.
At the age of 15, Morgan was rejected by Notts County, but he was then offered trials at Nottingham Forest and his career has since gone from strength to strength.
Leicester play Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in an FA Cup quarter-final on Sunday, with an opportunity to join Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and either Southampton or Wigan Athletic at Wembley.
Having won a Premier League title and featured in a Champions League last-eight tie, Morgan told The Telegraph that it is "surreal" to look back on his career achievements.
"I often speak to young kids trying to make their way into the professional game and tell my story. I think it's a story that inspires people and tells you never to give up," Morgan said. "I never thought I'd be in the Premier League when I was released by Notts County. I thought that was it, done and dusted for me, and semi-pro would be the best I could get.
"Now I'm sitting here as a Premier League winner and that's a magnificent achievement, considering where I came from. I don't think I'll truly digest it all until I've finished my career. I was out shopping in Birmingham a few weeks ago and there was a Leicester fan talking to me about how we won the league, the trophy bus parade going past her house and everything else. It feels surreal, even though it seems so long ago
"I've had amazing times since I came to Leicester, beyond my wildest dreams if I'm being honest. But football is always moving and you can't stand still or be dwelling on the past. The time to really look back and remember the special moments is when there are no interruptions."
Leicester's clash with Chelsea is followed by a league game against Brighton & Hove Albion at the end of the month.
