Euro 2024 star with stutter so severe his club don’t put him up for interviews has incredible second career as a rapper
DUTCH footballer Lutsharel Geertruida is a man of many talents.
The composed centre-back, who has enjoyed a stellar campaign for Feyenoord, is set to star for the Netherlands at the Euros.
But, don’t expect him to give any interviews.
The 22-year-old has a stutter so severe he is kept away from media duty.
However, that hasn’t stopped the brilliant defender from forging a career in hip-hop.
Geertruida conquered his speech impediment by releasing a rap record two months ago called ‘Game Over’.
It’s a far-cry from being camera-shy when it comes to post-match interviews.
ESPN journalist Jan Joost van Gangelen tried to get Geertruida on air for a chat, according to the Daily Star.
He and his team Feyenoord, though, decided against the idea because of his stutter.
Van Gangelen revealed: “Now there is reason to explain that.
“He has played well again, but he stutters a lot! That is why Feyenoord has decided, in consultation with him, not to do interviews.”
Worse still, when Feyenoord tried to feature Geertruida in a fan video – it unsurprisingly went badly.
“Someone who is physically top and a revelation simply cannot figure it out. That is especially annoying for him,” Van Gangelen added.
Despite his struggles, Geertruida has managed to launch a rap career.
His single ‘Game Over’ was shared by the club on YouTube and has reached 25,000 views.
He has also collaborated with rap star Dubbel T on the track ‘On top’.
Meanwhile, Geertruida could be bringing his music to the Premier League.
EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENT
Netherlands Euro 2024 guide
RONALD KOEMAN has overhauled Holland's playing style after returning for a second stint in charge.
Captain Virgil van Dijk will be expected to be a stalwart in defence while Xavi Simons will be hoping for a breakout tournament. But they may miss injured Frenkie de Jong.
MANAGER: Ronald Koeman
Ex-Barcelona and Everton boss was the scourge of England as a player when he knocked Graham Taylor’s side out of World Cup qualifying in 1994.
STAR MAN: Virgil van Dijk
Liverpool star has won everything there is to win at club level and will be counted on to keep things tight at the back.
How Holland attack
The Netherlands will play with a typically Dutch patient possession-based build-up.
They will stagger their positions to play through the lines, but can be overly individualistic in the final third.
How Holland defend
The Dutch will play with a medium block, allowing the opposition to break the first line before engaging in the midfield area.
They can run into problems when they fail to protect the middle of the pitch.
Read the full Netherlands 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags
The impressive stopper has been linked with a move to Liverpool, after hinting he could be Arne Slot’s first signing.
Back in April he was spotted watching the Reds take on West Ham at the London Stadium.
While Arsenal have also been linked with a move for him.