Former Ukraine midfielder Yevhen Levchenko, who has been living in the Netherlands for many years, told why Ronald Koeman is criticized in this country.
- There are so many journalists in the Netherlands who criticize for the sake of criticism... But Koeman's moves, such as the early substitution of Vermaelen in the match against Austria or the introduction of Malen in the next one, add to his credits. Yes, there are a few journalists who criticize Koeman. But on the other hand, we see what he has achieved with this national team. Even if it is not always bright.
Now we can say that the minimum task for the Netherlands has been fulfilled, so Ronald and the team will no longer be under such pressure to reach the final. Yes, everyone wants this, but the tension is not the same as before the last game with the Turks.
This is the turning point, because even after the defeat by England, everyone will say: "It's England". And so, there is always criticism. Even after Turkey, people asked why I hadn't sacked Depay earlier, why I hadn't replaced Van Dijk. But without Virgil, there will be even more questions.
So far, Koeman is making the right choice, albeit a difficult one. On the example of the same Verman, after whose replacement with Austria it was said that this was his last game for the national team. What did Koeman do? He gave him another chance. And for this, the players respect Ronald," Levchenko was quoted as saying by Tribuna.