Bournemouth star Justin Kluivert has admitted he was left shocked by the state of the pitch in Friday’s 1-1 draw in Poland.
[Soccer News cover comments](https://www.soccernews.nl/news/kluivert-kreeg-grote-eer-bij-oranje-ik-ben-verwend-de-laatste-tijd/) from the Bournemouth man today. He started as a number 10 for the Netherlands in the draw on Friday.
Kluivert is back in the Dutch side after continuing to impress at Bournemouth. He was handed just his 11th appearance for them in the clash with Poland this week.
Ronald Koeman elected to use him in his preferred number 10 role, behind a front three of Cody Gakpo, Donyell Malen and Memphis Depay.
It proved to be a frustrating evening as the Dutch were forced to come back from a goal down and settle for a point. Kluivert was unable to make much of an impact, later being substituted for Manchester City’s Tijjani Reijnders.
Part of his frustration was with the state of the pitch. And he admits he was caught out, having become accustomed to the standard in the Premier League with Bournemouth.
“They played with five men at the back, so there wasn’t much space,” he said.
“The pitch didn’t help either. I’ve been spoiled lately in the Premier League. The pitches there are truly beautiful. Now I noticed the ball wasn’t bouncing the way I thought it would. As a result, it stupidly hit my hand.”
He’s choosing to focus on the positives, though, particularly after only realising late in on training that he would be starting anyway. Not that it matters, as the Bournemouth man admits any appearance is a blessing really.
“We train specifically then, and he names the players who have to wear a vest,” he added.
“That’s usually the starting lineup. That’s when I knew. I was thrilled, of course. It’s always an honour. It’s wonderful.”