Chapter 50: The man who believed in him
The sun was beginning to set over Pride Park Stadium, casting a golden hue across the pitch. David Jones, Derby County's promising young right-winger, was the lone figure on the field. His sweat-drenched shirt clung to his back as he jogged to retrieve the ball yet again, his breath visible in the crisp February air.
Placing the ball carefully, David backed up a few steps. His mind replayed yesterday's game—the missed opportunity that had haunted him. That moment when he could've turned the tide for his team, only for his shot to sail over the bar. It wasn't just the disappointment on his teammates' faces that stung; it was the look in the crowd, the collective gasp of dismay. He felt he had let everyone down.
"Focus," he muttered to himself, shaking off the thoughts. He steadied his breathing, adjusted his stance, and visualized the perfect strike. With a burst of energy, his foot connected with the ball. It soared through the air, curving gracefully before slamming into the top corner of the net.
A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. But he wasn't satisfied. Not yet.
He lined up another shot, lost in his rhythm, when a familiar voice called out, breaking his focus.
"Still out here, eh?"
David turned to see Wayne Rooney, the player-coach and legend, leaning casually against the sideline barrier. Dressed in a tracksuit, Rooney's presence exuded a calm authority, his piercing eyes taking in the young player's relentless practice.
"Gaffer," David greeted, a mix of surprise and respect in his tone. "What brings you out here?"
Rooney smirked and strolled onto the pitch, hands in his pockets. "Could ask you the same thing. Thought you'd be resting after yesterday's match."