The Red Devils did not do well on Saturday with a poor performance in the scoreless practice match against Ireland. However, it was an ideal opportunity for some boys to highlight their European Championship candidacy. This was the case with Arthur Vermeeren, among others.
The still only 19-year-old midfielder won his first caps with the Devils in the autumn. That was well deserved based on his excellent performances at Antwerp FC. However, in January Vermeeren was sold to Atlético Madrid. And the youngster is hardly getting any work there for the time being.
According to Vermeeren, it was taken into account that he would initially play little. But with a view to a possible European Championship selection, his current situation is of course disastrous. That is why the match against Ireland, in which he stood between the lines for the entire match, was so important to him.
No rhythm, no confidence
However, the youngster failed to impress. “He lacks rhythm. He arrived too late everywhere and showed some uncertainty. There was a kind of fear of failure. There was one great ball from Vermeeren, but we saw far too little of that,” said (ex-)commentator Frank Raes. Shotcast.
De Zondag also saw how Vermeeren could not hide his limited rhythm. “The 19-year-old could not hide the lack of playing minutes and especially the lack of confidence. Too little involved in the game and, to make matters worse, responsible for a penalty,” writes De Sunday.
European Championship participation in jeopardy
Barring a turnaround in his situation at Atlético, Vermeeren is in danger of being left out of a European Championship selection. Especially because only 20 field players are allowed. “It is possible that decisions will be made based on this match. A lot will depend on whether he is allowed to play more in Madrid. Moreover, boys like De Bruyne and Carrasco are coming back, so some boys will be dropped,” said Raes.
Tags: Vermeerens European Championship dream late
