Brighton and Hove Albion goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen is “the most logical option” for the Netherlands and should be handed his chance during this international break.
That’s according to former goalkeepers Piet Velthuizen, Edwin Zoetebier and Hans Vonk, who have been talking to Soccer News regarding the Netherlands goalkeeper situation.
The role of number one in Ronald Koeman’s side is currently up for grabs, with a long-term injury to Justin Bijlow having opened up the chance for competitors to stake their claim.
That process has been something of a mess so far, with no players, including Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen, yet to properly stake their claim.
The Brighton man is yet to be given a chance by Koeman but that appears to be coming during this international break, with several reports making it clear that he will be selected for the clashes with France and Greece.
That comes after Brentford’s Mark Flekken was handed the role during the last international break but failed to impress, with a shaky performance against the Republic of Ireland drawing criticism.
That means Verbruggen now has his shot and according to the former goalkeeping trio, that’s the right decision.
“Bart Verbruggen seems to me to be the most logical option,” said Velthuizen.
“He has the most experience of pressure at the highest level, at Anderlecht and now at Brighton. The Premier League is two steps higher than the Eredivisie. for making a mistake against Liverpool We should not blame him too much.”
“Just like with players, you have to look at which goalkeeper is in shape and who plays at the highest level,” added Zoetebier.
“In that respect, I think selecting Olij was a logical choice. But because Verbruggen has already been there recently, has experience with the Dutch Juniors and plays in England, I expect him to play. I see him as a talented all-round goalkeeper, strong in crosses and one-on-one.”
“If you look at Koeman’s selection policy, it is obvious that Verbruggen will be goalkeeper,” concluded Vonk.
“That is a fairly unknown name to me, but he plays in the Premier League. That won’t be for nothing. He now gets the chance to prove himself for the Dutch team.”
