Reiziger explains creative solution after Smit misunderstanding

Jong Oranje coach Reiziger explains the arrangement allowing midfielder Smit to join the squad after the first Euro playoff leg against Denmark, then play in the return match.

Kees Smit initially declined to report to Jong Oranje's Euro 2024 playoff camp, citing fitness concerns after not being fully recovered from injury. However, the KNVB, AZ, and Smit reached a creative solution: the 20-year-old midfielder will complete a training programme at AZ and join the squad after the first leg against Denmark, enabling him to play in the return fixture in Almere the following Tuesday.

Jong Oranje coach Michael Reiziger defended the arrangement, explaining that Smit is not recovering from a fresh injury but needs to build match fitness and is not yet ready for full 90-minute appearances.

Reiziger noted that AZ had expressed frustration after Smit returned from a previous international break with an injury that sidelined him for several club matches, but stressed there is a shared interest in managing the player's welfare properly. Reiziger described Smit's initial refusal as a misunderstanding, saying the player was concerned about playing while unfit and felt reassured once the plan was clarified.