Netherlands Coach Danny Blind says Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman is going through a ‘personal drama’ as he tries to recover from a knee injury.
The Dutch international made just six appearances for the Giallorossi last season, initially sidelined after cruciate ligament surgery, then going under the knife again after being struck down with Cyclops Syndrome.
“I’ve called Kevin several times,” Blind revealed, speaking to De Telegraaf.
Netherlands Coach Danny Blind says Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman is going through a ‘personal drama’ as he tries to recover from a knee injury.
The Dutch international made just six appearances for the Giallorossi last season, initially sidelined after cruciate ligament surgery, then going under the knife again after being struck down with Cyclops Syndrome.
“I’ve called Kevin several times,” Blind revealed, speaking to De Telegraaf.
“Most recently the day before yesterday. He remains a great option for the Oranje [Dutch national team], he has both physicality and footballing ability.
“A lot of players in his position have only one of those qualities.
“That said, we shouldn’t make too much of a drama out of the fact he’s not available. He doesn’t have the flu, he has a serious injury.
“It hurts me to see a lad struggling with injury for 17 months at the height of his football career.
“For me, not being able to use him is annoying, but for him it’s much worse, it’s a personal drama. We need him, but we’re not going to rush his recovery.”