Troy Deeney, the former Watford striker, credits his time in prison with saving his life and reshaping his future in football. Deeney had been released for just nine months when he scored a pivotal goal that has become synonymous with his career. In the 2013 play-off semi-final against Leicester City, he netted a dramatic 97th-minute winner. This moment is forever etched in the memories of fans, thanks to the enthusiastic commentary of Sky Sports’ Bill Leslie, who famously shouted “DEEEEEENEY!” as the ball hit the back of the net.
Reflecting on that unforgettable goal, Deeney expressed a sense of calmness during the decisive moment. “It felt like everything slowed down, like you see in the movies,” he recalled in an interview with FourFourTwo. His journey to that moment, however, was anything but straightforward.
Deeney’s early years were marked by challenges and misadventures. Raised in Birmingham, he struggled with his education and was expelled from school. Despite a potential opportunity to join Aston Villa, he chose to spend his time with friends rather than attend a crucial trial. Instead, he began his career at non-league Chelmsley Town, where he learned valuable lessons about the game while playing alongside older, more experienced players.
“I was 16 playing with lads who were 34, so I instantly knew how to look after myself,” Deeney said. He thrived in that environment, developing skills and a gritty attitude. His talent caught the attention of Walsall, but his lifestyle outside of football was reckless. On one occasion, he played a match while intoxicated, reportedly scoring seven goals, although he humorously admitted he could not confirm the exact number.
As Deeney’s career progressed, he eventually joined Watford, where he became a key player and a fan favorite. Yet, his life took a dramatic turn in 2012 when he faced personal crises. His father was diagnosed with throat cancer, and shortly thereafter, Deeney was involved in an incident that led to his arrest. A night out ended in a brawl, resulting in charges of affray.
“Unfortunately, it took my dad getting sick and me getting arrested to make me realise I needed to liven up,” Deeney said. After attending his father’s funeral, he was sentenced to ten months in prison, serving just over three months. This period, he believes, was a vital turning point in his life.
“In jail, all you have is time,” he explained. Deeney used that time to reflect and plan for his future. He wrote down his goals, envisioning a successful career, a house, and a stable life. “It was the hard reset that I needed,” he emphasized, acknowledging the seriousness of his past while recognizing the opportunity for growth it presented.
Upon his release, Deeney returned to Watford, where he quickly made an impact. He scored in his first match back and went on to tally 20 goals that season, including the iconic play-off winner against Leicester. “I didn’t appreciate that goal for a long time,” he admitted, reflecting on the subsequent loss in the play-off final to Crystal Palace.
His football journey continued to flourish as he became captain of Watford and played a crucial role in the club’s promotion to the Premier League. Deeney noted, “I bluffed it for two years” when discussing his captaincy, highlighting the importance of hard work and leadership he learned from previous mentors.
After a successful career at Watford, where he scored over 140 goals, Deeney returned to his roots by joining Birmingham City. He later transitioned to Forest Green Rovers as a player-coach, but his managerial stint was short-lived. After a challenging start that included a four-game touchline ban, Deeney was dismissed from his role.
Reflecting on his experience, he acknowledged the lessons learned during that time. “Although he tries to give me stick any time he needs to, I appreciate Dale Vince giving me the opportunity,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes.
Deeney is now open to returning to management, equipped with the knowledge gained from his previous experiences. He has also ventured into television, co-hosting the BBC series Last Pundit Standing and participating in a celebrity version of SAS: Who Dares Wins.
As he looks back on his career, Deeney recognizes the profound changes he has undergone. “I played in the Premier League, I was Watford captain, I had the Leicester moment,” he reflected. His journey from a troubled youth to a respected figure in football demonstrates not only resilience but also the power of second chances.
Perhaps missing that Aston Villa trial was indeed the right decision, leading him to a path of redemption and success that few could have anticipated.
