Stevens backs Veerman: Dortmund asks hard work and defensive growth

Huub Stevens, former coach of PSV, believes that Joey Veerman has everything within him to succeed at Borussia Dortmund, but emphasizes that the German league is faster and more physical than the Eredivisie; the midfielder has so far made four interim appearances for the Ruhrpott‑club.

Stevens began his comments with the statement: “It is, after Bayern, the biggest club in Germany”. With this he placed Dortmund directly alongside the record holder from Munich.

He continued: “A Ruhrpott‑club, where they value extraordinary qualities. But where everything starts with hard work.” According to Stevens, the emphasis is on effort and physical robustness.

Last weekend Veerman came onto the field after the break for rival Felix Nmecha. It was his fourth appearance in Dortmund’s colours.

Stevens then praised Veerman’s ball possession: “In the German league everything happens faster and more physically than in the Netherlands. Joey has incredible qualities in ball possession, a great technique and therefore a high processing speed.” However, he warned that “football also consists of losing the ball”.

Stevens’ defensive tip for the Bundesliga

“Think defensively”, advised the former coach. “In that regard he has already taken steps, but in the Bundesliga even more is demanded of him. He will have to make extra meters, Dortmund naturally plays a lot in the opponent’s half.”

Stevens added that Veerman must learn to transition: “If the gap in his back becomes too large, he can get into trouble. He will then have to transition faster.” According to Stevens, the Dutch midfielder has already improved at PSV and has even “made jumps”.

“If Joey can carry that through at Borussia Dortmund, he has a very bright future ahead,” Stevens concluded. The expectation is that Veerman will continue to develop into a permanent fixture in the German top.