Matthijs de Ligt has been recalled into the Netherlands international squad after missing out last month.
With more than 50 international caps to his name, Matthijs de Ligt should be an automatic selection for the Netherlands.
Manager Ronald Koeman has not always been convinced. In their September international fixtures, he was selected to play for only two minutes.
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And then in October, De Ligt was not selected at all for the Netherlands squad, with Ronald Koeman citing the strong competition for selection.
Koeman did promise to talk to De Ligt and offer advice, and it’s clear the manager has been watching his recent performances for Manchester United, with the centre-back recalled.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty ImagesKoeman on De Ligt
Ronald Koeman was asked about Matthijs de Ligt when he addressed the media in the Netherlands.
And he admitted that De Ligt had simply been too good to leave out, and also cited Manchester United’s improvement, with the team now five games unbeaten.
Koeman told Sport Nieuws: “I felt I had to select him based on his performance. He’s been through a difficult period.
“There’s also more peace and quiet at the club now, and they’re performing better.”
Discussing his previous conversations with the defender, Koeman explained: “I’ve also sat with him sometimes and said he didn’t look confident in his play. I think that’s much better now.
“His position at the club will always be important for a player. I felt I had to include him again.”
Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij was left out of the squad, with Koeman saying he knows what he has with the experienced defender, and insisting the door is not closed for him.
How would you rate Manchester United’s season after 11 Premier League games? Matthijs de Ligt has been United’s ever-present
Matthijs de Ligt played strongly at the end of last season before an injury ruled him out of the Europa League Final. His absence was costly, with United losing the game.
De Ligt scored a vital equaliser against Tottenham at the weekend, demonstrating his resilience, netting in the 96th minute.
The defender can still reach another level, at 26 his best years are ahead of him. And part of that could involve reclaiming his place for his country.
If De Ligt can become the Netherlands’ main man, his confidence can reach a new level, which can only help his club form out.