My Hometown: Jeremy Ngakia

In the ‘My Hometown’ series, the Golden Boys reflect on their humble beginnings, lifting the lid on what’s special about the place they call home.

Next up is defender Jeremy Ngakia, who hails from Deptford, England...

How would you describe your hometown?

Growing up there, I liked it to be honest. All my friends from school are from there and I go back sometimes to see them. If it wasn’t for Deptford, I wouldn’t be playing football. The number of football cages that were around when I was growing up meant that there was always somewhere to play with my friends. I’ve still got my family there as well.

Traditional dish?

Growing up, and even now, we ate traditional food from our country Congo. Pondu was my favourite, which is like Cassava leaves.

Drink you’d have with it?

There’s not really a drink, for me. I would just have water.

Favourite restaurant?

There is one place that everyone goes to – even people from North London – it’s a place called Plush. It has some really nice Jamaican and Caribbean food.

Sight you have to see?

In Deptford High Street, by the market, there is a statue which you should go and see. It’s an anchor and it is to do with maritime history.

If you could introduce a visitor to one person?

There aren’t many footballers from Deptford, but my friend Eddie Nketiah plays for Arsenal and he grew up there. I’d introduce a visitor to him.