Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernández has explained his decision to recall former PSV midfielder Joey Veerman, insisting the Borussia Dortmund player has the technical qualities to contribute to his plans.

Veerman returns to the Oranje squad for the first time in more than two years after being overlooked by former head coach Ronald Koeman following Euro 2024.

Xavi, however, has been impressed by Veerman’s performances since his move from PSV to Borussia Dortmund and believes the midfielder can play an important role in the Netherlands’ build-up.

“For him it’s the same as for the other players who have been called up. He plays very well. He has great qualities,” Xavi said, as quoted by Voetbal International.

“Technically, he’s top class. He can be of value to us in our build-up and our way of playing. He is very good at that. I like him as a player.”

Xavi also revealed that his coaching staff have been monitoring Veerman closely.

“We’ve kept a close eye on him with our entire staff. He can help this team. I think he’s ready for it.”

Veerman’s relationship with the Netherlands setup had become complicated under Koeman. He was not included in the preliminary World Cup squad and subsequently indicated after PSV’s 5-1 victory over FC Twente in May that he no longer needed an invitation from the former coach.

Xavi does not intend to revisit that history.

“No, I have not spoken to him about that. I don’t like to talk about the past,” the Spaniard said.

“I focus on the present and look forward to holding individual conversations with the players. But also to the group conversations.”

Xavi will take charge of the Netherlands for the first time on Thursday when Oranje face Germany in the Nations League.

The new national coach has also been impressed by PSV winger Ruben van Bommel, who has earned his first Netherlands call-up after a strong start to the season.

Xavi watched PSV defeat Ajax 3-1 in Amsterdam on September 5 and also attended Feyenoord’s match against Utrecht.

“It is a good level,” Xavi said of the Eredivisie. “Yesterday I watched Feyenoord - Utrecht, a good level. I was also at Ajax - PSV, which was Champions League level in my opinion.”

Xavi stressed that his selections are based on individual performances rather than the club a player represents.

“But I care nothing about the club; I prefer to look at the player, the intensity, and the passion. Ruben van Bommel is in good form, so he is in.”

The Spaniard also believes Dutch clubs can make further progress in European competition.

“The level is good. Ajax - PSV was very good. They have to work hard and maybe they can make steps in Europe within a few years.”

Xavi added that he maintains contact with several figures in Dutch football, including Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Jordi Cruijff, as he begins his tenure with Oranje.