Rutten backs energetic NEC to stay in Eredivisie title race
Ruud Gullit and Fred Rutten have praised Dick Schreuder’s side, although Youri Mulder believes a Champions League campaign could hinder their domestic challenge.
UnconfirmedThis report is based on Dutch media speculation and has not been confirmed by the clubs or players involved.
NEC can remain in the Eredivisie title conversation if they sustain their intensity over a full season, according to Fred Rutten. The Nijmegen club finished third last term and have since reached the final qualifying round of the Champions League by eliminating Olympiakos.
Speaking on Rondo, Rutten credited coach Dick Schreuder with implementing an energetic style built around players willing to work for one another. The former NEC supervisory board member believes the team should not fear direct meetings with Ajax, Feyenoord or PSV. He stopped short of predicting the title, but said NEC could challenge for a long time if they have sufficient endurance.
Ruud Gullit was similarly impressed by NEC’s running, pressing and commitment. He contrasted those qualities with the performances of the traditional leading clubs, arguing that Ajax and Feyenoord have appeared tired while PSV have allowed opponents too many chances. “Why can only NEC do this?” Gullit asked, as quoted by FCUpdate, while highlighting Bryan Linssen’s work rate.
Youri Mulder suggested NEC could become fitter and more effective by continuing to play this way. However, he also warned that the approach might eventually take its toll as the schedule becomes busier. In his view, qualifying for the Champions League would reduce NEC’s prospects of mounting a sustained title challenge because of the additional energy required.
Reported first by
This English write-up is our own summary of the reporting above. Full details remain with the original publishers — please read them at the source.