Keagan Dolly has said that his hardships, including being snubbed by Kaizer Chiefs after being on trial for three months, is what's made him the player he is.
Now playing for Montpellier in the French Ligue 1 after his career defining move from Mamelodi Sundowns three years ago, the attacking midfielder reflected on his achievements so far from a journey that wasn't always easy.
"Everything is a highlight for me – from when I was at Westbury Arsenal to going on trials at Kaizer Chiefs and training with them for three months, and not making it," Dolly, speaking during a press conference with the SA Football Journalists' Association, said.
"Then going to the School of Excellence and leaving after three years before the school closed and sponsors leaving. I then joined Sundowns to see people that I trained with in the development team like Abel Shongwe, Mahlatse Makudubela, Doctor Mampuru all get a chance to train with the first team and me not going that far and deciding to go join Ajax Cape Town."
With Sundowns buying him back for a reported R6-million, the player went on to win the domestic league title and the CAF Champions League in 2016.
"I think through all my experiences it made me the player that I am, that's why I think I am this strong to be able to hang in there here in Europe, even though I am struggling. I think the most important highlight for me was always the tough times that I had – people telling me that I wasn't good enough to go back to Sundowns and that I am throwing my career down the drain," the 27-year-old explained.
"I have had great years with Sundowns since and won lots of trophies. I have always been the underdog and come out on top. I still have the ability to do that here in Europe."
