The former PSV playmaker’s rise at Borussia Dortmund has earned him high praise, as his expansive passing secures a pivotal role in the heart of Xavi’s midfield.
Rafael van der Vaart believes Joey Veerman is increasingly becoming a natural fit for Xavi’s Netherlands side after another influential display in the 2-1 victory over Serbia.
The former PSV midfielder played a key role in Oranje’s winning goal, finding Guus Til with an excellent pass before the PSV substitute supplied Mexx Meerdink, who finished to make it 2-1.
Van der Vaart: Veerman needed Dortmund move
Speaking in the NOS studio after the match, Van der Vaart praised Veerman’s development since joining Borussia Dortmund.
“Veerman is exceptionally the right fit for the very best. Now he also proves at Dortmund that he did indeed need to take a step in order to take another one,” he said, as quoted by PSV Inside.
Van der Vaart believes the midfielder’s move to the Bundesliga has given him the platform to develop alongside higher-level players and compete at a greater intensity.
“With the Bundesliga and with Dortmund, you also have better players around you. That was something you could see today,” he added.
The former Netherlands international also sees Veerman playing a prominent role under Xavi.
“He is really a Xavi player and I think he will be in the starting lineup more often,” Van der Vaart said.
Janssen highlights Veerman’s passing
Theo Janssen was similarly impressed, focusing on the quality of Veerman’s passing between the lines.
“He has a great ball between the lines, not that hard. Then you still have a bit of space so you can open up and accelerate again,” said Janssen.
Veerman’s return to Oranje has gathered momentum after he spent a prolonged period outside the national-team picture. His ability to find runners and progress the ball has now been highlighted by several former internationals as Xavi continues to shape his midfield.
