Where did you grow up, and what was it like there?

I grew up in a place called Bemmel. It was a really nice village. I grew up with my younger brother and older brother, and my parents. It was a really good life there. 

What age did you first start playing football?

I started playing when I was five years old. 

What was the name of your first grassroots team?

It wasn't really a formal team at first. I started playing with two of my best friends and we trained every Wednesday. Eventually, it called F15. 

How old were you when you first joined an academy?

I played for 12 years with the boys at my village club, SC Bemmel. Then I joined the youth team at PSV and was there for about six months before moving into the first team. 

Who would you say has been the biggest influence on your football career to date?

Definitely my parents. 

What's your biggest career highlight to date?

Playing for the national team, being at Chelsea, my time at PSV and, of course, my early days at Bemmel. So everything really! 

Who are your best friends in football?

I have quite a lot of friends. At Chelsea, I'm really close with Liv, Sio and Mika. Outside of Chelsea, I have friends from PSV like Lisan [Alkemade], Emma [Frijns] and Moon [Pondes]. 

Can you name your top three favourite players of all time?

Virgil van Dijk is my idol because of his playing style as a centre-back. And, of course, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are incredible players who have inspired me. 

Have you got any nicknames?

In England, they call me Vee. In Dutch, it's Veer or Veertje, which is an affectionate version of my name. 

What do you like to do most away from football?

I love spending time with good people and doing nice things. Outside of football, things that you always want to do but sometimes when you are within football you can't. And also being with my family and friends.

Are you watching any TV series at the moment you could recommend?

No, not really to be honest!

If we looked at your Spotify playlist, who would be dominating your most-played artists?

I listen to a mix of everything, but Olivia Dean is definitely one of my favourites. 

What are your top three holiday destinations?

In Europe I really like Spain and Italy. I really want to visit Greece as well and also Portugal which I would really like to surf one day.

If you had guests over for dinner, what would you cook for them?

I'd probably make some nice wraps and tacos. 

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?

From my parents, it's to keep both feet on the ground and believe in yourself. 

What does football mean to you?

Everything. I love football. I have a lot of fun both on and off the pitch. Laughing and enjoying the game is the most important thing for me.