Why Florent Ghisolfi chose Sunderland as his next project
Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs is currently away on international duty with the Netherlands
The 22-year-old has enjoyed a hugely successful start to his career on Wearside, having signed from NEC Nijmegen over the summer, and has been rewarded for his performances at club level with a series of call-ups to the Dutch national team.
As things stand, Roefs is still yet to make his debut at senior international level, with Verbruggen currently occupying the number one jersey, and former Brentford talent Mark Flekken also in contention. But the Sunderland favourite has admitted that he is willing to be patient, and has suggested that for the time being, he would be content to settle for a place in Koeman’s plans at next summer’s World Cup - even if it is just as a squad member.
What has Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs said about his role with the Netherlands and Brighton stopper Bart Verbruggen?
As quoted by Soccer News, Roefs said: "I'm not here thinking, 'I'll just grab the top spot.' I've only just played eleven Premier League matches and just have to be patient. Bart Verbruggen is doing incredibly well for the Dutch national team. He's a really good all-around goalkeeper and has mastered everything. He's been playing in the Premier League for a few years, of course, so that also plays a role. So there's no reason to change anything.
"Besides that, Mark Flekken is also a very good goalkeeper. So the roles are clear, I think. I mainly have to maintain my momentum and be ready if that opportunity ever comes. Of course, it would be fantastic to play one day, but for now my goal is to be at the World Cup and experience the entire tournament. Ultimately, it's just up to me to continue the momentum I've set at the club, and then we'll see."
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What else did Robin Roefs say?
Elsewhere, Roefs also addressed the possibility of Sunderland teammate Brian Brobbey playing his way back into the Netherlands squad. The striker has not been called up in any of the past four international breaks, and when asked if his compatriot is struggling with not being included in Koeman’s plans at present, Roefs replied: "You really have to ask him. But of course he'll be disappointed. I know he wants to be here, and he has the qualities to do so. It's important for him now that he gets some playing time. If he plays, it can only help him in his national team. Everyone ultimately wants to play for the Dutch national team. He's no exception."
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