Aims to make his late mum proud

amazing and my old man was looking after me and advising me.

“I’ve been through a lot worse in my life than just an injury. As soon as I got going again on the treadmill and the cycling, I knew I was going to be alright.”

Of course, the loss of his mother hit even harder than the knee injuries.

Hendry recalled: “I was young, only 12 when it happened and I took a year out from Blackburn’s Academy.

“My dad gave me the option and I said I wouldn’t mind a break. There was no time of my own, with school and training at night. Dad thought I needed a social life after everything that had happened.

“Mentally, it was important after everything I had been through. It helped me in a lot of ways.

“But football, and getting on the pitch, was the only place I could go not to worry about anything. As long as I was playing, I was happy, and the injuries have made me not take football for granted. You only get one career.”

Hendry wasn’t aware of his dad’s success-strewn career on both sides of the border when he was growing up.

“My dad had retired and was coaching at Clyde and Blackpool, but I was on You Tube all the time watching him,” said Hendry. “I wish I had been old enough to see him play but I can watch videos and motivate myself from them.

“My dad has been the biggest influence, a backbone for me and my sisters and brother.

“He had a hard time after mum passed away but I wouldn’t be where I am without him.

“I thought when I signed a professional contract he would involve himself more. But he has always taken a step back. If I need advice, I ask him. I know he is always there for me.”

Hendry is relishing the opportunity he has been given at McDiarmid Park, with manager Tommy Wright predicting big things for the highly-motivated teenager.

“I’ve enjoyed every minute of it here, the football and the lifestyle,” said Hendry. “I want to achieve something in Scotland, just like my old man.

“Making my mum and dad proud is the biggest motivation I have.

“I remember when I was six or seven at Blackburn and playing seven-a-side. She’d be standing in the corner watching, with a big furry coat on, a big furry hat and a cup of tea.

“Seeing me play first-team football would have meant so much to her so it really drives me to make it happen.”