KNVB and AZ agree: Kees Smit to skip first Jong Oranje match

Smit will skip Jong Oranje's first Euro qualifier against Denmark in November but join for the decisive return leg on Saturday to build fitness after injury.

AZ midfielder Kees Smit has agreed with the KNVB and his club to miss Jong Oranje's opening Euro 2025 qualifier against Denmark in November.

Smit recently returned from a six-match injury absence and will continue training with AZ to regain full fitness before joining the squad on Saturday for the crucial return fixture at Almere City FC. The two-legged tie against Denmark determines qualification for the European Championship.

AZ teammates Wouter Goes and Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro have withdrawn due to injury, with Thijmen Blokzijl and Joeri Heerkens called up as replacements.