Robbie Dennison says former Swansea City teammate Frank Lampard was destined for greatness.
Chelsea ace Lampard, 34, said the experience of living in close quarters with a well-travelled player at the opposite end of his career was an important part of his development.
For his part Dennison, now 49, noticed a rare talent emerging.
"He was very driven lad, ambitious and knew what he wanted to do," Dennison told the Belfast Telegraph.
"He was a fantastic athlete, I remember that, first and foremost. He could run all day and still does now.
"He is a very intelligent lad, who seems to have no airs and graces. He is fully focused on his game. He hasn't done too badly, has he?"