Schreuder banks on Sandler as NEC brace for Olympiakos clash

Trainer Dick Schreuder said on Monday that Philippe Sandler is set to feature for an hour in NEC’s Champions League-ontmoeting against Griekse Olympiakos on Tuesday evening, confirming the Dutch side’s readiness for the European clash. The announcement came during a press conference that also addressed squad availability ahead of the Europa campaign.

Vandaag, the club issued an update confirming Sandler’s hour‑long involvement, and De announcement emphasized the strategic importance of the League‑ontmoeting. Dick Schreuder made the statement at the preparatory press conference on Monday, outlining the player’s expected minutes.

Kodai Sano will be tested tonight, and Schreuder believes he can play sixty minutes if the assessment goes well. The Japanese midfielder remains a NEC player despite speculation.

Sano turned down reported moves to Nottingham Forest, Ajax and PSV, and Schreuder expects him to stay after the transfer period ends in September. He stated, "I assume he will still be with us after the transfer window."

Sano sidelined as NEC faces Olympiakos, PSV prepares swift signing

When Schreuder arrived, NEC had a three‑year plan to reach Europe, which has now accelerated, he explained. "It’s a special day for the club," he added, noting the rapid progress toward Europa.

In recent friendly matches, the Nijmegen side won only two of seven duels, a result Schreuder dismissed as irrelevant to the real competition. "Training games are not about results," he said, stressing that the true test will be on Tuesday night.

Captain Tjaronn Chery also addressed the press, saying he feels good about playing in the Champions pre‑round and denying any stress. "We have had a good season and deserve to be here," he added.

The contrasting statements highlight NEC’s optimism for the upcoming European night while acknowledging uncertainties surrounding squad fitness and transfers. The club’s focus remains on delivering a performance that matches its accelerated Europa ambitions.