Guus Hiddink has backed Joey Veerman to remain a key figure for the Netherlands after the former PSV midfielder played a decisive role in Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Serbia.

Veerman helped create the winning goal in Belgrade, producing an excellent pass for Guus Til, who then supplied AZ striker Mexx Meerdink. Meerdink converted to complete his second goal of the evening after scoring a first-half penalty.

Speaking on SBS6 programme De Oranjezondag, former PSV coach and Netherlands manager Hiddink was clear about Veerman’s place in the national team.

“Well, in principle he should always be in the starting lineup. He is the man who has depth in his head. He only looks at whether players move well. If they move in time, he has the ability to play them well,” Hiddink said, as quoted by PSV Inside.

The 38-year-old midfielder, who left PSV for Borussia Dortmund last summer, has returned to the Netherlands setup after a lengthy absence.

Hiddink highlighted the pass that helped unlock Serbia for Oranje’s winning goal.

“You could see that too with the goal, albeit not against a very good team. But he does know how to reach Guus Til. He puts the ball down very well,” he added.

Hiddink also believes Veerman’s move to the Bundesliga can help him develop the defensive side of his game.

“I also think it’s a plus that he now plays in the Bundesliga, where the intensity is higher than in the Netherlands,” he said.

According to Hiddink, the experience of playing at a higher intensity is already exposing Veerman to different demands.

“So he’s also learning, where he’s heavily criticised, that on the international stage the defensive aspect becomes more intense as well. He will do that too.”

Veerman’s return to Oranje has been notable after his difficult period following Euro 2024. Having previously faced questions over his international future, he has now made a strong impression in consecutive matches and is again being discussed as an important part of Xavi’s plans.