Tottenham new signing Alfie Devine, 15, was released by Liverpool before starring for England U16 in SportChainCup
THIS week, Tottenham wrapped up the signing of promising midfield talent Alfie Devine.
The 15-year-old England youth international was snapped up from cash-strapped Wigan, who were forced to sell after entering administration.
But, it could’ve been a different Premier League giant helping Devine hone his skills.
The talented star, son of former St Helens rugby player Sean Devine, remarkably began playing at Liverpool’s academy when he was just four.
At seven it appeared he was being primed for a career at Anfield, after signing terms with the club.
However, at 11 he was released and it wasn’t to be at his boyhood club.
TIME FOR REFLECTION
At a crossroads, Devine couldn’t hide his disappointment.
He grew disillusioned with the game, and gave up playing for four months to reflect on his time at the academy.
Then came redemption with Wigan Athletic.
The Latics immediately offered Devine a place, and were said to be shocked that he was let go by the Reds.
They changed his position from centre forward to central midfield, and he prospered through the youth ranks.
And this season he has really pushed on.
Devine became a regular for Wigan’s U18’s, and rather astonishingly, was given his U23 debut – just two months after turning 15.
He was also invited to train with Paul Cook’s first-team this term.
TRIUMPHS ALONG THE WAY
With Tottenham aiming to win trophies, Devine has already steeped himself in the tradition of being a winner, albeit at a younger level.
For Wigan’s U15’s he was the star man in the 5-0 rout of Sunderland in the Floodlit Cup final.
While he was also part of the Latics FA Youth Cup side that beat Spurs on their way to the quarter-finals for the first time in their history this season.
His performance that day stood out to Tottenham youth coaches, who were wowed by the youngster.
THREE LIONS GLORY
Every young footballer dreams of playing for their country.
Devine is no different, having represented England’s U16 team and leading by example.
He starred at the SportChainCup in Spain, playing in a 5-0 rout of Japan, as well as games against Mexico and the host nation.
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England eventually crashed out the tournament to Spain, but Devine took centre stage to win the player of the tournament.
Spurs have a long history of cultivating classy midfield players, Glenn Hoddle, Paul Gascoigne, and Dele Alli spring to mind.
In Devine it appears they may have unearthed another gem.