Playing in the U-17 team or in the FA Youth Cup was probably very different from the Premier League, especially when making your first appearance.
It all came down to trust.
To ensure no unnecessary pressure fell on the young Brazilian, Richard chose his words carefully — as simple as possible.
Ronaldinho nodded, eyes sparkling with eagerness. He wanted to compete at the highest level, to test himself against the best. Richard acknowledged him with a brief nod and said nothing more.
"Don't hang your heads. That goal sucked the air out of us, yes, but it's not the end. Not by a long shot. We've controlled the ball, we've created chances, and we know exactly how Tottenham play."
As Richard approached the locker room, he could hear O'Neill giving his motivational talk to the players. He did not disturb the team — respect for the process was everything. Once O'Neill finished, Richard called over both O'Neill and Mourinho.
