Frank de Boer responded on Saturday to Georginio Wijnaldum’s statements in heroes. The the Dutch captain indicated that he would have liked to see Kevin Strootman and Ryan Babel in the European Championship selection, especially because of their experience and leadership qualities. Wijnaldum even called Strootman a ‘much better captain’ than he is himself. De Boer did not seem to appreciate a question about the statements.
“I have said before that such players can be important,” said De Boer about Strootman and Babel. “Of course, eventually they also have to add something in football. You make that decision. But when I selected Strootman, I don’t think you were very positive about it. And now I suddenly have to take Strootman with me again. That’s how it usually goes. about, just like when someone is behind the wall, you often laugh about that too.”
“Things like that can be very important,” the national coach continues. “Eventually you make a conclusion: do we have enough people who can also fill that role? Let’s hope that is the case. You talk about it with people, that hopefully they will take that role. Kevin was able to do that very well. take on a role.” Wijnaldum indicated that he did not see himself as the ideal captain. He thinks the players will accept his opinion, but Strootman and the injured Virgil van Dijk bring ‘something more’ in his eyes.
“That is why it is such a shame that Kevin has not been selected for the European Championship. And not only because of his leadership abilities, I think he can also add something in football,” said Wijnaldum. “I would also have liked to have had Ryan Babel there. Some boys are so important in and for the team. But the trainers are free to make other choices. I have given my opinion. That is also possible with Frank de Boer, he is “Very open to other people’s opinions. He discusses things with us and often does something with our input. He has to make the choices, because if anyone is held accountable for it, it is the trainer.”
Football zone keeps you informed about everything about EURO 2020
Curious about the current position, the competition program and much more European Championship news? Click here!
Related
More sports news