**Ex-Everton winger Royston Drenthe is in hospital after struggling a stroke.**
Drenthe featured 27 times for David Moyes’ side during a season-long loan in 2011/12 but was omitted from the FA Cup semi-final due to a disciplinary issue.
The former Netherlands international, who also represented Real Madrid and Feyenood before retiring in 2022, was hospitalised at the end of last week.
FC De Rebellen, an agency which represents several former footballers including Drenthe, confirmed reports of the one-time Blues loanee’s health ordeal.
A statement read: “Last Friday, Royston Drenthe suffered a stroke. Drenthe is currently receiving good care and is in good hands.
“The team and those involved hope for a speedy recovery.
“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.”