Redemption : my story

***'Footie book of the year.' - The SunTROY DEENEY is best known as Watford FC's former captain and a thorn in Arsenal's side.

But behind the successful and gritty football persona is a remarkable story of resilience. In this brutally honest and inspirational memoir, Troy shares what it was like to grow up on Europe's largest council estate, where his mum worked three jobs and his father, a notorious drug dealer, was frequently in and out of prison. He shares stories of self-sabotage, from simply not turning up to Aston Villa's football trials as a teenager, playing while drunk to being imprisoned for affray at the height of his career. But Troy never gave up, even when it meant playing professional football with an ankle tag.

He went on to score 20+ goals in three successive seasons and became the Club Captain, an FA Cup finalist, promotion winner and Watford's record scorer.

He also became an outspoken player advocate and - in an age of bland footballer interviews - is a sought after voice on football and footballers today. Engaging, endearing and insightful, this book is where Troy comes to terms with his turbulent past.