Back in 2019, when he was recovering from a 13th injury in seven years, Andy Carroll's hopes of playing football into his 40s were no more than a distant dream.
Compounded by accusations of unprofessional behaviour from his younger days at Newcastle, even a sustained career deep into his 30s seemed improbable.
But the opportunity to carve out his place in history at fallen French giants Bordeaux is helping the 35-year-old stave off thoughts of retirement.
And while the towering former England striker is losing money by playing in France's fourth tier, he tells BBC Sport his love for the game is driving him on.