Robin Roefs spared as Netherlands World Cup goalkeeping options criticised | OneFootball

Robin Roefs, one of three Sunderland players in the Netherlands’ World Cup finals squad, has escaped the harshest criticism amid scrutiny of the team’s goalkeepers. According to Vandaag Inside, pundit Johan Derksen criticised the overall options but tipped Roefs to become the best, while insisting he still needs experience.

The 23-year-old joined the Black Cats in a reported £nine million deal last summer and excelled under Regis Le Bris. He kept 10 clean sheets in 35 Premier League games as Sunderland finished seventh and booked a Europa League place.

Roefs has since been a regular squad member for Ronald Koeman as the Dutch qualified for the finals. After six straight qualifiers on the bench, he made his senior debut in a pre-finals friendly defeat against Algeria earlier this month.

He returned to the bench for the 2-2 draw with Japan in the opening group game, with Brighton and Hove Albion’s Bart Verbruggen starting. The youngster’s nervy display drew criticism.

Derksen also questioned whether any of the three keepers are genuine internationals. He was unconvinced by Verbruggen and held a low opinion of former Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken.

Roefs will look to add a second cap during the tournament.

Source: Sunderland Echo