Big boost for de Haan
Netherlands Under-21 coach Foppe de Haan has been handed a boost.
Netherlands Under-21 coach Foppe de Haan has been given the green light to field Ron Vlaar, Romeo Castelen and Urby Emanuelson in this week's play-off with Slovenia.The first leg in Slovenia ended in a 0-0 stalemate, leaving the Jong Oranje well placed to reach next summer's finals.
The Dutch have a raft of young stars in Marco van Basten's senior squad, with Vlaar, Castelen, Emanuelson, Rafael van der Vaart, Ryan Babel and Wesley Sneijder all eligible for the Under-21s.
Van Basten has acceded to de Haan's wishes by sending Vlaar, Castelen and Emanuelson down to the juniors to face Slovenia.
Vlaar started Saturday's full international with Italy, but had a night to forget as he scored an own goal and was at fault for the third before being subbed in the second half.
Castelen looked sharp against the Azzurri, while Emanuelson will be eager to impress at the Abe Lenstra after failing to make an appearance.
