Van Hanegem criticises Memphis Depay substitution and praises Summerville

Columnist Willem van Hanegem has praised two players following the Netherlands' 5-1 victory over Sweden. He highlighted Brian Brobbey's two goals and Jarrod Summerville's performance as standout moments. Van Hanegem stated that Summerville should now start in the Oranje lineup. He also criticised Memphis Depay's brief cameo, calling it unacceptable. Depay replaced Brobbey in the 70th minute and provided the assist for the final goal. Van Hanegem questioned why Summerville, who he deemed the best player on the field, was not given a starting berth. Van Hanegem attributed Brobbey's improved form to his move from Ajax to Sunderland. He suggested that Brobbey now feels more valued in England and with the national team. The columnist also noted that Brobbey nearly scored a third goal if Memphis Depay had played the through ball better. The Dutch legend also expressed concerns about Virgil van Dijk's performance. He believed Van Dijk could have prevented Sweden's goal if he had intervened in midfield. Van Hanegem added that Van der Ven struggled against Sweden's Elanga, who outpaced him. He criticised Jordan Teijsse Reijnders' display, stating that the midfielder did not appear to be playing. Van Hanegem also questioned Reijnders' focus, suggesting he may be too preoccupied with scoring goals.

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Van Hanegem praised the Netherlands' goalkeeper for a fortunate decision to disallow a Swedish goal before half-time. He argued that the keeper only made saves he was expected to make. The columnist also highlighted Sweden's strong performance, noting their control in small spaces and numerous chances. He described Sweden's organisation as surprising and credited the Netherlands' luck in seeing a goal disallowed before half-time. Van Hanegem also reflected on the Netherlands' struggles against well-organised teams like Japan. The columnist concluded by expressing optimism about the Netherlands' next opponent, Morocco. He praised the Moroccan team, particularly player Bilal El Khannouss, and suggested that Brazil would be a more manageable opponent.

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Van Hanegem stated: ‘Summerville hoort natuurlijk vanaf nu in de basis te staan.’ He added that Summerville could be the discovery of this World Cup. He also remarked on Brobbey's improved form since leaving Ajax, saying: ‘Ik denk dat hij in Engeland, en nu bij Oranje, het gevoel heeft dat hij serieus genomen wordt.’