Chidera Ejuke, the new star of Royal Antwerp FC, recounted his incredible journey and how he was able to turn things around after a failed trial at Liverpool.

In an interview with Belgian media outfit Het Nieuwsblad, the Nigerian also revealed the influence of Club Brugge coach Ronny Deila and his journey to Liverpool FC.

“I didn’t dare to ask for football boots at home for a long time,” Ejuke explained, talking about his family’s financial challenges.

Ejuke’s journey to Europe included challenges and disappointments, especially after his trial spell with Liverpool.

“I felt like I had let my family down,” he admitted honestly.

The experience motivated him to continue pushing for breakthrough and after a brief spell with Nigerian club side Wikki Tourists, he found his way to Valerenga in Norway, where he became instant success, with the Manager, Ronny Deila.

Ejuke is now at Antwerp, while Ronny Deila is coaching Coaching Club Brugge.​

“He believed in me and gave me time to grow. He made me forget the cold and the snow. Unfortunately, when we played Club, recently, I didn’t get the chance to speak to him, it was a bit too hectic. Hopefully it will happen next time.”

Ejuke also played for Dutch side Heerenveen from where he joined Spartak Moscow in a whopping €18m deal, but was loaned to Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin last season.