Legend says it’s ‘nonsense’ Everton summer signing was picked over rival

 

Former Netherlands international Willem van Hanegem has questioned why Everton goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg was selected for the game against Belarus on Friday night. Stekelenburg played his first game in four years for his national team following his form with the Merseyside club this season.

In his column for AD.nl, Van Hanegem said it’s nonsense the Everton No.1 has been brought back into the team even though he’s become a regular under Ronald Koeman. The former Feyenoord star realises Stekelenburg is playing to a good standard since joining Everton in the last transfer window, but believes PSV star Jeroen Zoet should have been considered.

“What a nonsense to suddenly put Maarten Stekelenburg below the bar. He is doing well at Everton, but why not Jeroen Zoet?”

Due to the lack of games Jasper Cillessen has been getting at Barcelona this season Stekelenburg was given a rare chance at the age of 34 year old by Netherlands coach Danny Blind. Cillessen has since picked an ankle injury, meaning Stekelenburg may play against France.

The decision to side with the Everton player upset straight talking Van Hangegem who obviously believes Blind should be looking to another option, and selecting 25-year-old Zoet, despite the experience of the Everton man.