Koeman hails fitter Brian Brobbey as Sunderland form earns Netherlands recall | OneFootball

Ronald Koeman has recalled Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey to the Netherlands squad, praising the strides he has made in fitness since moving to Wearside last summer.

According to Sunderland Echo, the call-up follows a strong run for Sunderland, capped by a match-winning display in Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby victory over Newcastle United.

His start under Regis Le Bris was slow after a deadline-day switch from Ajax, but as sharpness improved so did minutes. Since the 3-0 loss to Manchester City on 6 December, he has started all but two Premier League games.

A groin issue brought his only notable setback, ruling him out of back-to-back matches against Bournemouth and Leeds United in late February and early March. Koeman cited Brobbey’s increased durability and said he now meets the Premier League’s intensity, having earned his place after limited early action.

The Netherlands boss also contrasted the league’s demands with those in his home country, noting Sunderland’s push to the final second as part of that standard. Brobbey has eight senior caps and one international goal, with his last appearance a Nations League cameo against Spain a year ago.

Le Bris has praised the striker’s development, saying training levels rose again this week and that Brobbey initially needed time to reach full competitive fitness.

Source: Sunderland Echo