Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman has admitted that he didn't select former Jeremie Frimpong for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers - because he has 'doubts' over his ability to defend.
The full back has excelled at Bayer Leverkusen since his move from Celtic two years ago, after he made his name at Parkhead after being discarded by Manchester City. The Amsterdam-born speedster was the perfect buy under Neil Lennon, blossoming over an 18-month period which saw him win the three trophies in 2019/20 to complete a famous 'quadruple treble' before continuing his rapid rise in the Bundesliga.
Under Louis van Gaal, Frimpong even burst into the Dutch national team and was selected in their squad for the World Cup this winter. Having been linked with Manchester United, Barcelona and Arsenal in the past, the 22-year-old has remained at the BayArena and has become an incredibly important player under Xabi Alonso this term.
But despite his top form in a well-regarded European league, Koeman has explained his decision to shun Frimpong for the likes of Denzel Dumfries and Lutsharel Geertruida - claiming that he has 'doubts' over Frimpong's ability to defend. Speaking ahead of the international double header Koeman said: "No Frimpong? This is because of the system that we play in.
"He plays almost as a right winger. My right back should be able to defend well in the first place and I have my doubts about that."
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