Chapter 24: Mindset
After the game, the Derby County team returned to Pride Park. Most of the players seemed unfazed by the draw, laughing and chatting as they unwound from the intensity of the match. David, however, was unusually silent, staring out the bus window, lost in thought.
"Hey, why have you been so quiet?" Jason, his closest friend on the team, asked, leaning closer to him.
David sighed, barely audible. "We could have won that match if I'd just converted my chances."
Jason blinked in surprise. "Dude, you were the best player out there. You created the first chance and assisted the second goal. What are you even talking about?"
David shook his head. "I missed a goal," he murmured. "After I dribbled past their second defender, the goalkeeper was a little off his line. I should've shot then. But instead..." He trailed off, a memory replaying vividly in his mind—a moment where he had chosen to pass to Martyn Waghorn instead of taking the shot himself.
Jason stared at him, dumbfounded. "You're blaming yourself for not scoring a goal that half this team—heck, half the league—couldn't even attempt? Guess geniuses really are on another level," he muttered under his breath.
David didn't reply. He just stared out of the window, his thoughts clouded with self-recrimination.
As the team bus approached Pride Park Stadium, the home ground of Derby County, Jason nudged David. "Hey, look outside."
David turned his gaze to the windows. Fans had gathered around the stadium, their passion palpable even through the glass. Banners waved in the air, emblazoned with messages of support: Welcome Wonderkid, We Believe in You, Trust Wayne Rooney, and more. A few fans proudly wore shirts with the number 30, David's number.
David's throat tightened at the sight. "See them? We play for them," Jason said softly.