Ex-Premier League prodigy Causso Darame, 24, dealt drugs as he was ‘too proud’ to claim benefits when club dropped him
AN EX-FOOTBALL professional dealt drugs because he was “too proud” to claim state benefits after being dropped by his club.
Causso Darame, 24, dreamed of the big time after moving from Portugal to be signed by club Swansea City in the Premier League at the age of just 16.
The speedy winger compared himself to superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar – but failed to make it.
A court heard he then turned to drug-dealing to make money because he refused to accept unemployment benefits.
He was chased by police and discovered hiding underneath a car with £1,000 worth of heroin and cocaine.
Recorder Paul Lewis KC said: “You told the probation officer you were living off the proceeds of crime because you were too proud to claim benefits.”
Prosecutor Steven Donoghue said further drugs were found at his home with a street value between £740 and £1,000.
Defence barrister Martha Smith-Higgins said her client was signed to Swansea City FC as a teenager after being provided with a scholarship and sponsorship.
When he was in the Swansea City set-up he told their website: “I try to play like Ronaldo or Neymar – they are the players I have grown-up watching.
“Ronaldo is my hero though. His hard-work ethic is a great example for young players like me – I would like to be like him.
“I always try to be skilful and fast to cause as much trouble as possible on the wing.”
But at the age of 19, he was released from his contract and was unable to find another club.
Cardiff Crown court heard Darame’s life began to “spiral out of control” and he turned to using drugs.
He ended up racking up a debt and began dealing drugs in order to pay off that debt.
Since his remand in custody, the defendant has joined the prison football team – and wants to restart his career.
Darame, of Llanrumney, Cardiff, pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to supply class A drugs.
He was sentenced to a total of 28 months imprisonment.