There's something heartwarming about players who were once vilified for their very ability to kick a football - the most basic of tasks in their lucrative job description - suddenly become quite good.
It resonates with the average fan, always dreaming of putting on their club's shirt and taking to the pitch, hoping the gaffer notices them in the crowd one day and brings them on as a substitute.
Moussa Sissoko truly went from zero to hero at Tottenham, becoming the embodiment of their run to the Champions League final, and was rewarded with a new contract on Friday.