Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has recalled being released by Bolton Wanderers as a youngster.

He and his Dad Nick drove around the country trying to get a trial after Bolton let him go as a teenager because he was too small.

In the new GK1 magazine, Ramsdale reveals he slept in the back of his dad's van in a car park just off junction 33 off the M1 near Rotherham because they could not find a hotel with any vacancies.

Ramsdale said: “When I left Bolton, me and dad travelled anywhere and everywhere up and down the country, just trying to get a trial. We'd stay in Travelodge hotels night after night.

"One night we couldn't even find a hotel with vacancies so we both kipped in his van in a car park. Dad didn't mind. He said as long as my schoolwork didn't suffer, he'd back whatever I wanted to do."

Ramsdale eventually landed a scholarship at Sheffield United and then worked his way up but he has never forgotten another lesson from his dad about respect courtesy of Sir Bobby Charlton when it comes to shaking hands with opponents after a game.

"I make sure I remove a glove before shaking hands at the end of a game. I think it's a respectful thing to do," said Ramsdale.

"My dad met Bobby Charlton once and dad asked if he could shake his hand. Bobby agreed and took his glove off to shake. That touch of respect stayed with dad for years - and now it stays with me."