Koeman hails Brian Brobbey as much fitter after Sunderland surge and Netherlands recall | OneFootball

Brian Brobbey has been recalled by the Netherlands after a standout run with Sunderland, with Ronald Koeman praising marked gains in the striker’s fitness since last summer’s move.

According to Sunderland Echo, the 24-year-old’s return follows a match-winning display in Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle United.

Brobbey’s start on Wearside was gradual after a deadline-day switch from Ajax, often featuring from the bench. As his sharpness improved, so did his game time, and since the 3-0 defeat to Manchester City on 6 December he has started all but two Premier League matches.

A groin issue was his only notable setback, keeping him out against Bournemouth and Leeds United in late February and early March. Koeman said Brobbey looks far fitter now, is adapting to Premier League intensity, and has earned his place after limited minutes early on. He compared him with his last spell in the squad while at Ajax and wants to see him in action.

Brobbey has eight senior caps and one international goal, and has not played for the Netherlands since a Nations League cameo against Spain around this time last year.

Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris said Brobbey reached another level in training last week, highlighting stronger connection with his own performance and team-mates. He noted the striker arrived short of peak fitness and needed time to become physically competitive in a demanding league.

Source: Sunderland Echo