Ahead of the Netherlands’ first national team fixtures of the season, Ajax midfielder Frenkie de Jong reflected upon his first ever call-up but says he has not yet spoken to manager Ronald Koeman.
- by Michael Statham
- Follow Michael on Twitter @EredivisieMike
In an exclusive interview with Football-Oranje, de Jong said, “I would like my debut, but that’s up to the coach.”
The 21-year-old is fit again with Ajax and enjoyed another good performance in a 5-0 win over FC Emmen. Koeman said it was clear to see why de Jong was selected for the Dutch, however, de Jong has not heard from Koeman, “I haven’t spoken to him yet.”
The Netherlands face Peru on Thursday, 6th September, in a friendly to commemorate Wesley Sneijder’s final appearance for his country before a Nations League tie with World Champions France on the 9th.
You can watch our full interview with de Jong by clicking here or pressing play on the video below:
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Writer/interviewer/YouTuber for Football-Oranje. Massive Dutch football fan from the UK. Follow me @EredivisieMike & subscribe to Football-Oranje on YouTube.
Koeman should definitely blood him against Peru or France and the other Nations League matches so that he can get acclimated to the squad now, and to see if he can be a good option for the far more important Euro 2020 qualifiers in the spring.
Lack of consistency and quality in midfield has been very problematic for the “Oranje” in recent years, so seeing if he can gel and establish a rhythm within the side will be important to do now rather than later.