Bosz explains careful handling of Ruben van Bommel after long lay-off

PSV coach Peter Bosz has explained why he is monitoring Ruben van Bommel’s workload closely during the international period. The winger had gone almost a year without playing before returning to full training and a demanding match schedule, leaving Bosz alert to the risk of further physical problems.

Bosz told Voetbal International that players returning from lengthy absences can subsequently suffer different injuries. He cited Sergiño Dest, who encountered a muscle problem after previously having no such history, as an example of the risks involved. That concern led Bosz to leave Van Bommel out against Sparta Rotterdam.

Van Bommel’s involvement with the Netherlands then increased after Cody Gakpo was injured. Bosz had initially expected the PSV player to remain behind Gakpo in the pecking order, but Van Bommel came on, performed well and started the following match. The coach admitted he was relieved when the winger was withdrawn at half-time against Greece rather than completing another 90 minutes.

Bosz said his priority as PSV coach is to have his players return healthy. Although he would enjoy seeing Van Bommel play the full game and score heavily against Serbia, he believes that would be unwise given the player’s recent path back to action. He also raised concerns about 37-year-old Ivan Perisic playing full matches during a four-game international programme.