Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman explains why he chose Wout Weghorst over Zian Flemming
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Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman has explained his decision to pick former Claret Wout Weghorst over current Burnley striker Zian Flemming in his World Cup squad.
The 27-year-old finished the season on 11 goals from just 21 league starts - a more than credible record for any side, but especially so for a relegated Burnley outfit.
Weghorst, by comparison, has netted just eight times for Ajax in the Eredivisie.
Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee is another striker to miss out, while Sunderland frontman Brian Brobbey made the cut alongside Weghorst.
Koeman was grilled about his picks during a press conference this afternoon, where there was particular focus on Weghorst’s inclusion.
“He has his role with us and I think in that role he is still very useful - and I don't see anyone else who can do that,” he told reporters.
When the reporter pointed out there was another striker who is in form and has regularly made the starting XI in the Premier League, Koeman replied: “Who?”
When the name of Flemming was put to Koeman, the Dutch boss responded: “Ah yes, but okay. The way we might want to finish a match, if we have to play on the bench, defending in set pieces - there are so many moments where he [Weghorst] can be an added value that you or you might not see.
“But I do see that. So yes, that is a difference of opinion.
“And in that regard, Flemming is not an added value to me compared to the strikers we already have. You are talking about a number of other strikers, but they are different from Weghorst.”
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