Stay in control of the latest Blues news with our Everton newsletter Sign up now Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Richarlison has revealed he was close to giving up on his dream of being a footballer as a youngster after countless rejections from various clubs.

The Everton man has now catapulted himself into worldwide interest, bagging two goals on his debut for the Brazil national team after a brilliant start to the Premier League campaign with the Blues.

But, it hasn't always been like this for the 21-year-old.

The forward has revealed how close he was to quitting football as a young player as he struggled to find a club to take him - but hard work and persistence have helped him to realise his dream.

"I haven't got enough fingers to count the number of clubs who rejected me," Richarlison told AS.

"I was ready to give up football, but I lifted my head and I went to Belo Horizonte with just the money for an outward ticket for the last trial I had, with America MG. If I didn't make it, I had no money to get home to Espiritu Santo, 600 kilometres away.

"I gave my all that morning and I passed. If I had given up after the first no I would never have made it where I am today.

"I had to live in my uncle's house because it was closer to where I used to train and I had no money for the bus.

"I used to sell candy and ice creams in the street and I worked in the fields to help my parents. I couldn't have done it otherwise, because everyone did what they could so I could fulfil my dream of being a footballer.

"I have learned that you need to have patience, perseverance and faith in people to reach your goals."