Reiziger defends surprising choice for Heerkens: 'We know what he can do'

Reiziger defends his call-up of Jong Ajax goalkeeper Heerkens for the U21 Euro play-offs after injuries to other keepers.

Jong Oranje face Jong Denmark in a two-legged Euro U21 play-off, with the first match Friday in Vejle and the return Tuesday in Almere. Coach Michael Reiziger has named 23-year-old goalkeeper Joeri Heerkens to his squad after injuries ruled out Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro and Tom de Graaff.

Heerkens was not in Reiziger's initial selection but earned his call after the withdrawals. The Jong Ajax keeper has struggled in recent matches but trains regularly with Ajax's first team. Reiziger explained his reasoning: "You have a list of players you follow.

With young keepers that's not always easy because they don't always play at the highest level. Joeri has been with us before, and he also trains with Ajax's first team. You see it in training today—he makes some good saves. Of course he's been unlucky in matches, but we know what he can do."

Heerkens earned credit with strong performances for the Netherlands U19 side at their winning Euro campaign. Reiziger hopes the call-up will give the young keeper a confidence boost during a difficult spell.