Last updated : 11 February 2011 By Covsupport News Service
Former Coventry City youngster Neil Collett is enjoying his time at Mansfield Town.
The Coventry born keeper was out of football after his one year professional deal at Coventry City ended in June 2009 and a non-paying contract at Nuneaton did not work out and had four months working in a warehouse before David Holdsworth phone him and invited him back to Mansfield for a second trial in March 2010.
Collett (left in picture) impressed and has been at Field Mill for over a season. He has now dislodged Kevin Pilkington and has taken over as the club's number one keeper.
Speaking to This Is Nottingham, Collett said: "I wouldn't say I lost interest in football, but I had become disillusioned with it.
"Going back to October 2009, I'd played a few games at Nuneaton. They promised me something, but it didn't materialise and I also found it hard making the adjustment to part-time.
"At that point I just wanted a break from football. I was having a few personal problems so I started working in a warehouse instead.
"That made me grow up a bit more. I had to live in the real world for four months and it makes you realise how lucky you are being involved in football.
"But David Holdsworth had my number from when I first came on trial and asked me if I'd like to come back for a few training sessions.
"A few months on and I'm in possession of the goalkeeper's shirt. It's been a tough road at times but I'm delighted to be where I am now."
Picture copyright of Covsupport News Service. Credit CNS/KM
