Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Van Gaal opts for poacher Huntelaar

SoccerNews in World Cup 10 Oct 2012

59 Views

Louis van Gaal says he is likely to use Klass-Jan Huntelaar ahead of Robin van Persie for the Netherlands’ match against Andorra.

The Netherlands host minnows Andorra in UEFA qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup at De Kuip Stadion on Friday.

National team coach Van Gaal has said he looking to use Schalke striker Huntelaar rather than Manchester United star Van Persie.

“We’re expecting to enter the box a lot, in matches like that you can expect Klaas-Jan will play,” Van Gaal told Goal.com.

The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach claimed he does not see Van Persie thriving in any other role than as a centre forward, so is therefore unlikely to start.

“I see him as a striker and won’t put him on another position so fast,” he said.

Van Gaal also said explained his surprise decision to name 22-year-old PSV midfielder Kevin Strootman as his captain.

“Strootman is an example, on and off the pitch, especially inside the lines,” he said.

“Off the pitch he has to learn quite some things, like speaking up. As a captain you have to be able to do that.

“That has to do with character, but you can also learn this. Maybe that’s his weakness. On the pitch you see that he stands up for his team, outside the pitch this can improve.”

“The fact that (Wesley) Sneijder is from the new generation and (Dirk) Kuyt is from the old generation made this decision. I needed someone from the youngest generation.

“You can see it as an education to become a captain.”

Following the Andorra game, the Netherlands travel to face Romania on Tuesday.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SoccerNews

Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.

You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.

SHARE OR COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE

WE RECOMMEND

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This field is required *

Join the conversation!

or Register

Live Scores

advertisement

Betting Guide Advertisement

advertisement

Become a Writer
More More
Top