Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Guzan admits showdown talks with Paul Lambert in the summer convinced him to stay.
Guzan was ready to leave before Lambert made him a new contract offer.
"I had something to give to the club," he said, "I had a conversation with the manager at the start of the season.
"It was about being real. Having real conversations and being men about the situation. It was one of those where everyone starts afresh. He's been as good as his word."