Van Gaal: Friendlies will be money spinners

Louis Van Gaal says Netherlands clashes with China and Indonesia in 2013 are a money-spinning exercise.

Oranje will play friendlies against the two countries next year as they continue their preparations for World Cup 2014.

A spokesman for the KNVB confirmed the trip to Goal.com, but stated that the ‘dates, times and locations’ of the fixtures were yet to be finalised.

As well as promoting the tour as an economic venture, the 61-year-old also stressed that the games will be used as a platform for youngsters to impress ahead of the Under -21 European Championships, to be held in Israel in June next year.

“China and Indonesia are in my opinion opponents to pick up money. We also travel because of promotion of our youth plan, but also out of economic perspectives. A lot of companies will travel with us,” he said.

The Dutch coach has dismissed any fears that the competition could hinder them in the lead up to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, highlighting the quality opposition already lined up ahead of the tournament.

“Because of these matches I’m happy with our games against top teams like Germany, Italy, England and Portugal,” he said.

“They are countries I want to play against. China and Indonesia are other games. For the Chinese and Indonesians these are great matches. We do this because of the money and we try to make it a nice trip.”