Netherlands coach explains why Memphis is a World Cup substitute | OneFootball

The Netherlands thrashed Sweden 5-1 in their second World Cup group match, and Corinthians forward Memphis Depay came on after the interval as Ronald Koeman explained why he remains on the bench.

"His speed, the way he goes back and forth between attack and defence, makes me a fan of his. That is why, today, Memphis is a substitute. He accepts his role, we have discussed his physical condition and he is cooperative," he told NOS.

The No 10 produced a quiet but effective cameo, supplying an assist and featuring in another decisive move during a dominant Dutch display.

Memphis completed four of five passes, all in the final third, and found his only attempted long ball. The assist came from that build-up work, underlining his importance to the Dutch organisation and tempo in attack.

The result moves the Netherlands provisionally top of Group F on four points. Japan face Tunisia overnight, and a Japanese win by five goals would drop the Dutch to second.

Koeman’s side finish the group against Tunisia on Thursday at 20:00, at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.

Source: Meu Timao