The content discusses the phenomenon of amateur footballers trying to prove their skills and justify their potential by talking about missed opportunities or near-misses in their career. The focus of the article is on Todd Cantwell, a player for Norwich City, who recently appeared on a podcast and discussed various aspects of his career. The author highlights the constant feeling of “if only” in Cantwell’s narrative – if only he had avoided a back injury, if only he had moved to the Premier League, if only he had more opportunities. While Cantwell’s struggles and mismanagement of his talent are acknowledged, there is also a sense of him trying to convince others that he is better than he has shown.
The article also points out instances where Cantwell mentioned failed moves to clubs like Leeds United, Bayern Munich, and Arsenal, suggesting that there was significant interest in him from these top-tier teams. However, the author emphasizes that these claims do not align with the reality of Cantwell’s career, as he has only amassed 45 appearances in the Premier League and has played for Norwich and Rangers. The author argues that Cantwell’s career has been filled with “nearly” moments and that he ultimately has no more to show than his former Norwich teammate Kieran Dowell.
Cantwell’s statement about being an inspiration to other young players from Norwich is questioned by the author who highlights that despite his rise through the ranks, Cantwell did not achieve the level of success he aimed for. The article concludes by urging young players not to focus on simply boasting about clubs that considered signing them but instead to strive to reach their full potential and maximize their abilities.
Overall, the content criticizes the tendency of amateur footballers, including Cantwell, to romanticize their near-misses and missed opportunities in their career. Cantwell serves as an example of someone who failed to achieve what he desired and the article aims to discourage young players from accepting a “nearly” career and instead encourages them to aim for the very top and make the most of their talent.
