Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman publicly calls out Xavi Simons despite 4-0 thrashing against Scotland
Ronald Koeman criticised Xavi Simons for losing the ball ‘too many times’ despite the Netherlands’ thumping win over Scotland.
Holland beat Steve Clarke’s side 4-0 in their international friendly on Friday night as both sides continue to prepare for Euro 2024.
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Simons made his 12th appearance for the Netherlands, but Koeman wasn’t happyCredit: GettyA host of top talent featured for the Netherlands in Amsterdam, including RB Leipzig star Simons.
However, Koeman was left unimpressed by the Paris Saint-Germain loanee despite him playing the majority of the match.
Speaking after the game, he said: “Xavi Simons was one of the players who lost the ball way too many times.”
Koeman also critiqued the side’s performance overall, even though they fired in at least four goals for the second consecutive game.
MORE ON INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL”We learned almost nothing from today’s friendly. Even with the 4-0, I’m not satisfied. We were too slow, we made mistakes every time the ball reached the attack.
“Have we come a step closer to the European title? Well, not like we played tonight. It can be instructive, but then we really have to learn something from it.
“Of course, it’s crazy that when you win 4-0 you’re not satisfied, but that’s the reality.
“We haven’t been good on the ball, except for the end of the game. The substitutions did well, but before that it was not good for an hour.
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Koeman has called for improvement from his side ahead of Euro 2024Credit: Getty”The beginning was restless and sloppy. If you make these kinds of mistakes in your build-up, then the system is out of the question.”
Tijiani Reijnders fired an excellent strike into the top-left corner to give the Netherlands the lead before half-time.
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Liverpool star Cody Gakpo assisted former Reds midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum to double their lead in the 72nd minute to all-but seal the victory on home soil.
Scotland suffered a collapse in the closing stages as Wout Weghorst and Donyell Malen scored two goals in as many minutes.
The Netherlands next face a tough test against Germany on Tuesday night, whereas Scotland host Northern Ireland at Hampden Park.
Scotland are now six games without a win in all competitions – their worst run since September 2008.
It’s the final international break of the season and one last chance for players to impress in order to be considered for Euro 2024.
