One of Netherlands most talented young defenders, Jeremiah St Juste is looking to put last season’s injury worries behind him and cement his place in Feyenoord’s eleven.
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A part of Heerenveen’s academy since the age of 11, St Juste made his first-team debut in January 2015. The then 17-year-old quickly established himself in the heart of the Frisian’s defence and made 28 starts the following campaign, switching from the defence to midfield.
St Juste’s performances drew plenty of attention from abroad with Manchester United heavily linked, but the youngster decided to remain in Friesland for another season. Heerenveen had a difficult campaign but St Juste remained a bright spot and he was picked up by Feyenoord last summer for around €5 million.
The Netherlands U21 international had an injury-hit first campaign in Rotterdam, missing most of the final end of the campaign. However, he impressed in his 23 appearances and scored the winner in the 2-1 win over Napoli in the Champions League.
Back to full fitness, St Juste is set to play a major role in Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side this season at right-back.
Style of Play
St Juste is a centre-back by trade but his excellent football ability means he is more than capable of moving into the midfield or slotting in at right-back, where he is set to feature this season.
The 21-year-old is an excellent reader of the game and loves to use his strength to brush off opponents, but going forward he is also a weapon with his athleticism, pace and ability on the ball. He showcased his quality in the pre-season match with Levante as he strode forward, played an excellent one-two with Robin van Persie before picking out Jens Toornstra to slot in.
St Juste had an issue with red cards during his time at Heerenveen but with Feyenoord, he is maturing as a player and doesn’t jump into tackles as much.
What to expect from St Juste this season
Feyenoord has several centre-backs at the moment and unless one departs it appears that St Juste will have to settle for a right-back slot at the start of the campaign.
He will be hoping to stay injury free, adapt further to his new position and play a major role as Feyenoord go for the title and a strong European campaign.
St Juste has been one of Netherlands top prospects in the defence for the last few years and this is the year he will be hoping to make his big breakthrough and earn a call-up from Ronald Koeman. A strong campaign should see St Juste linked with Europe’s top clubs once again.