Manchester United fullback Ashley Young has revealed he came close to being lost to the game while at Watford.

Young was cut loose by Watford as a 16 year-old.

He explained to the Mirror: “I was in Watford's Under-16 squad, the YTS year – I was told I was too small, and too thin, to withstand the physical demands of higher age groups, but I wouldn't take 'No' for an answer.

“When they told me I wasn't getting a full scholarship, I went home to my mum and dad's house and stared at a blank TV screen for a whole day.

“I didn't move from the sofa, the whole world came to a standstill.

“Watford said it was up to me if I wanted to come back part-time, two days a week, or just leave. The way they left the door ajar gave me a second chance. It's like they were challenging me, to see how badly I wanted it.

“If anyone thought I was going to give up the ghost, they ­misjudged me. I wanted to prove people wrong, and show I had the determination and the ­hunger to succeed," added Young.

“A lot was said about my height and build, but Lionel Messi is never going to be built like a heavyweight champion and it didn't stop him becoming the best player in the world."