Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow was close to joining Southampton last summer before the deal collapsed late in the window.
The 26-year-old has been speaking to Feyenoord ONE to review 2024 and his comments are relayed by Soccer News.
Bijlow’s transfer to Southampton was advanced and he even travelled to England for a medical before the Saints called off the transfer.
It was then reported the Premier League side had concerns over treatment received by the stopper for his wrist injuries in the past. Southampton decided not to go ahead with the operation and ended up signing Aaron Ramsdale from Arsenal on deadline day.
There was a disagreement in the Dutch press later over the player’s failure to secure a move to St Mary’s. In September, Feyenoord director Dennis te Kloese hinted the Saints walked away from Bijlow because Ramsdale became available.
Since the failed move to Southampton, the Netherlands international has largely had to settle for a substitute’s role at the Eredivisie side as he’s a backup for Timon Wellenreuther. Bijlow is of the belief the struggles last year have helped him mentally.
“I was happy that 2024 was over. I think I came out mentally very strong. I can be proud of myself that I never gave up and always kept going,” he said.
“Of course, I have moments when I’m not very happy or when I am angry, but I also know that it doesn’t actually benefit me. You better laugh and make something of it. I try to joke around every now and then and experience everything as positive.”
Feyenoord are currently fourth in the table, 10 points behind leaders PSV Eindhoven, and Bijlow wants his side to do better in the second half of the season.
