“I became a pro football player quite late,” he added in a UEFA Europa League feature.

“I saw the other side of life that is why I try to enjoy the special moments in football even more.

“The things you can do, the places you can see, it obviously makes it special.”

Former coach Joseph Bijloos said, “Cyriel’s journey has been challenging because he’s always been underestimated.

“His talents didn’t always receive the praise they deserved.

“Despite all the setbacks, he’s always managed to bounce back. That’s very typical of his character.”

Dessers smiled, “There are so many good football players in the world but how many can say they played in a European final?”