Andros Townsend says he broke down in tears after a free transfer move to Burnley collapsed over the summer.
The former England winger had agreed terms after a successful trial but the Clarets withdrew the offer as they did not want to stifle the development of some of their younger players.
He is still a free agent after leaving Everton last season.
"It was probably one of the toughest conversations I've had in my career," said the 32-year-old.
Speaking to Radio 5's Monday Night Club, Townsend said he has spent the past month trying to earn a contract elsewhere but has been "rejected by so many clubs" both at home and abroad.