Crystal Palace ace Wilfried Zaha admits being dumped by Manchester United revived his career.
Since returning to Palace, initially on loan, before making it into a permanent deal in January 2015, Zaha has pushed on — and is using Kevin De Bruyne as inspiration.
The Belgian star struggled in his first spell in the Prem with Chelsea before blossoming at Manchester City.
Zaha told The Sun: “There was a point I was thinking, 'If I do not buck up, I could let this slip'.
“Before you know it, I could have been in League One.
“I knew that what happened at United should not define me as a person or player.
“It was about having a strong mentality and working hard. I'm at an age where I feel I have to start fulfilling my potential.
"People said I was not ready for my big move — but I didn't get the opportunity and was just branded a flop.
“I had to start again. I'm doing it for myself and also to show I'm a good player."
He added: “Players can come back stronger. Look at De Bruyne.
“Jose Mourinho got rid of him at Chelsea, he joined Wolfsburg, came to City and is now one of the best players in the Prem.
“Sometimes, the easiest route is not the best route. You come back stronger."