We talk to the NFL wide receiver about everything from emojis to extravagant watches.

For your average UK-based NFL fan, an opportunity to watch the New York Giants will involve a round-trip of several thousand miles, and filling out one of those confusing ESTA forms. But, with the International Series expanding this season, there are ever more opportunities to do so on home turf. In celebration of this fact, and this Sunday’s game between the New York Giants and the Los Angeles Rams at the Twickenham Stadium, London, we caught up with our old friend, the Giants’ star wide receiver Mr Victor Cruz. No vulgar talk here, gentlemen.

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?

Check my email, then my Instagram. That’s my source of news and current affairs.

What’s your breakfast of champions?

Egg whites and cheese, turkey sausage, French toast and a bowl of fruit.

What’s your favourite emoji?

The salsa dancer. I do have my own emoji now of me dancing, too.

What would your last supper be?

An array of things: steak, shrimp, rice and beans, avocado salad, fried plantains, basically a Puerto Rican-Hispanic feast.

Who’s your style icon?

My dad – he was always someone that dressed to impress, always looking the part no matter what. Even if we were going to play basketball, he had a matching outfit. He was always put together.

What’s the most surprising fashion item you own?

I have this flannel poncho that I like to wear from Romeo Hunte. It’s a little different.

What’s your biggest extravagance?

Watches, especially Hublot. It’s an expensive habit. I just got to design a Hublot watch.

Name a place everyone should visit before they die.

Kith Manhattan or Kith Brooklyn.

First thing you do when you get into a hotel room?

Check the view from the window. I like to have a good view.

First thing you do when you get home?

As soon as I touch down at the airport in New York, I have to eat fast food. McDonald’s, whatever. I don’t know why but I’m just always hungry for fast food.

Best advice your mother or father gave you?

My mother told me to always finish what you start, no matter what happens. It shows character.

What would you say to your 17-year-old self?

Oh man! I’d say, it’s going to be a long journey. Don’t try to build Rome in one day. You have to be diligent and focused. Be ready when your number is called.

What’s your recurring dream?

Football consumes my brain. For the last two weeks I’ve been dreaming about winning the Super Bowl, holding that trophy.

What do you listen to before a big game?

All hip-hop: Jay Z, Rick Ross, Fabolous. I’m a big music fan and I have particular songs that gets me really psyched up before a game.

What are your superstitions or rituals?

I have a routine. I come in, go get stretched out by one of the physios and then get in the hot tub to warm up my muscles before I get dressed. I also say a prayer before I go out.

Which athlete do you admire the most outside NFL?

LeBron James. We’re very good friends. I was extremely happy for him to bring the championship back to Cleveland.

Who would play you in a movie?

I’d love to play myself, but if I had to choose someone… Jaden Smith.

Song you sing in the shower?

Oh man! Anything by Fetty Wap right now.

If you weren’t an NFL player, you’d be…

…A guidance counsellor, helping kids, not only giving them the tools to get into college but how to stay there and use their time wisely. I wish I’d had someone like that.

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