As is the case in football, careers can sometimes take an unexpected turn. Over the years, a number of individuals have exceeded all expectations while others have failed to deliver the career expected from them.
Injuries have often played their part in players being unable to fulfil their potential, while on other occasions a professional attitude has proved to be a key component missing.
Indeed, there's a long list of household names who were expected to shine - but ultimately they failed to live up to theirhype.
1. Freddy Adu Freddy Adu signed a professional contract for D.C United at the age of 14 and became the youngest ever player to score in the MLS at the start of his first season with the American club.
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