Former Sheffield Wednesday and Everton man Royston Drenthe opens up on tough upbringing and father's tragic murder
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Royston Drenthe, a former Real Madrid star and Holland international, arrived on loan from Reading in 2014 and played in 23 league games for the Owls.
A big character, he had since led a colourful career, taking on short-term stints in Turkey, Abu Dhabi and in his homeland – where he played semi-professionally – before signing for Spanish fourth tier side Racing Murcia in January.
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Hide AdEarlier this month he was acquitted of money laundering after police found more than £150,000 in cash in his car.
Drenthe, who scored a wonder goal for Wednesday against Charlton, has spoken for the first time about the circumstances of his childhood in Rotterdam and the murder of his father, who had been caught up in the city’s drug trade.
“I grew up in West Rotterdam, the 'hood, and often saw junkies shooting up in the street as a kid,” he said.
“I don't know the full details of my father's murder, but I know he was quick to speak his mind and that proved to be fatal.
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Hide Ad“He is still a legend in the city. I hope he's looking down on me now and seeing me do a good job.
“They say someone offered him a drink in a bar, and he spitefully said he had enough money to buy his own drinks.
“I would have just accepted the drink, but not him. It led to a disagreement. I could have grown up in a similar way.
“My mum brought me up well, but you never know what temptations and paths might come your way.”
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Hide AdDrenthe has had reincarnations as a rapper and now an actor, and was speaking ahead of his latest role in Dutch crime drama Mocro Maffia.
“I could truly be myself in the role. I know the street talk, and the cast were able to learn from me.
“I always looked up to actors as a kid. I watched rappers like 50 Cent act in films, and thought I can do it as well.
“During casting they asked me if I'd acted before. I said no, but it seems like I'm a natural talent as I got the part.”