ENGLAND rugby star Marcus Smith has revealed he had a trial with Tottenham and was reduced to tears after failing to impress.
The Harlequins fly-half, 25, made his international debut in 2021 and has earned 35 caps for his country.
He has fast-become one of the biggest names in English rugby.
But things could have been very different had he made it in his preferred sport, football.
Speaking on The Stomping Ground, he said: "Growing up I always wanted to be a footballer. My mum was always pushing it to me - the money is a lot better in footballer."
He continued: "When I moved to England when I was 13 I went to Brighton College down in Sussex.
"That school is predominantly rugby and cricket and growing up my dad always preferred rugby.
"I was still adamant I wanted to be a footballer and then at 14 or 15 I had a trial at Tottenham. I didn't get in and I remember crying."
Smith played all six of England's World Cup matches last year, scoring two tries.
Steve Borthwick's side reached the semi-finals before losing 16-15 to South Africa.
The couple have been together since 2020 and regularly share photos together online.
Beth has featured in campaigns for huge brands such a PrettyLittleThing.