There is a chance that Teun Koopmeiners will return to AZ’s starting lineup on Wednesday evening for the Europa League match with Celtic. The captain of the Alkmaarders was left out of the starting lineup by trainer Pascal Jansen against RKC Waalwijk (1-0 loss) last weekend. Judging by the press conference, Jansen seems to reconsider his decision against the Scots. The game between Celtic and AZ in the play-offs for a Europa League ticket will be attended by 50,000 fans.
Koopmeiners fell by the wayside against RKC because Jansen wanted players who ‘have their minds on AZ’, referring to Koopmeiners’ transfer wish. “It would be very special if a lot has changed in a few days,” Jansen said to the newspaper on Tuesday Noordhollands Dagblad during his press conference in Glasgow. “So what I said then, I also now include in my consideration regarding Teun. Yes, the strength of the opponent also plays a role in that consideration. We may make different choices for this match. That may also mean a different setup.”
After the game with RKC, Koopmeiners was visibly disappointed with his reserve role. “I would have liked to play yes”, the midfielder agreed in front of the camera of ESPN. Koopmeiners finally came in after an hour of play, but was unable to turn the tide. During the press conference on Tuesday, he confirmed that he was ready for a possible starting place. “I mainly spoke with the coach about the game against Celtic. Something very important is waiting for us. I am focused on that. I am ready to play in any case.”
Prior to the game with RKC, Jansen did not dare to make a prediction whether he will have Koopmeiners available next season. Owen Wijndal, who has often been linked to a transfer in recent weeks, is still not sold. He did see a new goalkeeper added to his selection on Monday with Peter Vindahl Jensen. The Dane, who serves as Marco Bizot’s successor, is not yet between the posts against Celtic, Jansen indicated. “He has only been with us for a few days and gets a lot of new impressions to process. We give him time to adjust slowly. Hobie Verhulst will be on target again against Celtic.”
The game between Celtic and will be attended by 50,000 Scots on Wednesday evening. “It’s fantastic for the players, but also for the staff and for me as a trainer,” said Jansen. “I’ve seen a lot of Celtic matches and I think it’s great that we are now going to experience that atmosphere in real life.” Koopmeiners is also looking forward to the ambiance at Celtic Park. “It’s fantastic to play in front of such a big crowd as a footballer. I don’t have to prepare mentally for it, I’m definitely going to enjoy it.”
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