Former Premier League star Royston Drenthe has been rushed to hospital after suffering a stroke.
Drenthe, 38, suffered the medical issue on Friday and was immediately taken to hospital.
The Dutchman's condition is so far unknown, but it's said Drenthe is in “good hands”, with doctors taking “good care” of him. Medical staff are also hopeful of a “smooth recovery.” It's unclear what caused the stroke.
A statement from FC De Rebellen, a club for “the most rebellious, versatile and controversial former footballers from the Netherlands and Belgium”, read: “Last Friday, Royston Drenthe suffered a stroke.
“Drenthe is currently being taken good care of and is in good hands. The team and those involved are hoping for a smooth recovery.
Royston Drenthe was on loan at Everton during the 2011-12 season.
Royston Drenthe was on loan at Everton during the 2011-12 season (Image: 2012 Getty Images)
“Royston’s family is asking for peace and privacy during this period so they can provide him with the support and space he needs for his recovery.”
Drenthe emerged on the scene at Feyenoord as a quick footed left winger before getting a move to Real Madrid in 2007.
He remained at the Santiago Bernabeu until 2012, but played just 65 games, spending time on loan at Spanish side Hercules and Everton in the 2011/12 season.
At Goodison Park, Drenthe scored four goals in 27 games. He also had later spells at Reading and Sheffield Wednesday.
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Drenthe, known for his Playboy lifestyle, was declared bankrupt in 2020, admitting he spent his fortune on parties, holidays, fast cars and women.
He said: “I felt like a god at Real Madrid, playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, and I am proud of it.
“But I also liked to party hard in this world of glitter and glamour. I used to drink a lot even though I had to train the next day.
“In my first year with them I earned £1.4million, and received another £430,000 as a signing-on bonus.
“But I am not a rich man. I squandered the money on holidays and nice cars. Women have also been a very big reason for the money disappearing.”