Smit dazzles UK press after an hour in Europa League for Sunderland

On Wednesday evening Kees Smit, the AZ midfielder, returned to the starting lineup after an hour of playing time with Sunderland in the Europa League, where he again managed to convince the British press, despite a recent injury and a cautious deployment by coach Leeroy Echteld.

Second English experience in the Conference League

It was the second time Smit played at a high level on English soil. Last season he appeared in the Conference League with Crystal Palace, where he showed why all of Europe had him on their radar. That display attracted extra interest from the Premier League.

British press praises Smit after hour in Europa League

Also on Wednesday he showed in an hour of playing time at Sunderland what he is capable of. Coach Leeroy Echteld gave him limited minutes to minimise the risk after an injury. The Sunderland Echo was impressed: “He played good football between the lines. With his clever footwork he provoked several fouls from the home side.”

Shortly after the break Smit missed a subtle passing move close to the goal, guarded by Dutch‑international Robin Roefs. praised the action: “With a fantastic effort he beat his compatriot, but the ball went wide.”

In the second half he again confirmed his quality. The Telegraph wrote: “He displayed his silky feet several times on Wednesday evening. A pleasure to watch.”

added that AZ “played very well” and that Smit contributed to a genuine Europa League feel. The magazine also noted that “the team is packed with youthful talent” and that players like Smit and winger Ro‑Zangelo Daal “could end up in the Premier League, probably for large sums.”

Technical director Niels van Duinen can now rub his hands together, because he can move the biggest talents abroad for hefty sums – something predecessor Max Huiberts did not do last year. His ambition aligns with the growing interest of English clubs in Dutch players.