Stoke City striker John Guidetti says he developed a strong faith thanks to his time in Kenya.
Guidetti says the rocky road on which his young career has already travelled is one he is able to negotiate because of his faith, a faith seemingly nurtured when living in Kenya for five years during his childhood.
The on-loan Manchester City told The Sentinel: "Life isn't always going to go up," he reflects. "I'm a strong believer in God and God puts you to the test.
"You have to deserve to be a great footballer, it cannot always be easy for you.
"When things go against you, that's when you prove you are a winner.
"In Africa we prayed before and after every game and every training session.
"They stood there with no food or clothes, but said every day 'thank you Lord for the gift of life.' I am very lucky to have seen this part of the world.
"I pray also before every game and on a Sunday I try to go to church."
