Ajax defender Dest chooses US over Netherlands
WASHINGTON: A dual-national eligible for both the Usmen’sfootballnationalteamandthenetherlands, Ajax defender Sergino Dest has made his decision and plans to represent the US internationally.
Dest, 18, featured for the United States at various youth levels but grew up in the Netherlands. He played for the US in the Under-17 and Under-20 World Cups.
He made his senior national team debut for the Americans last month when he played in friendlies against Mexico and Uruguay, but because he had not played a competitive match for the US senior men’s team, he could still change his affiliation to the Dutch national team.
“I am happy to announce that I have decided to keep playing for the US men’s national team,” said Dest, who had made progress this season, already securing a starting place with Ajax.
“Of course, it was a tough decision for me when thedutchmen’snationalteamshowedtheirinterest, but I have built up a very good feeling with Team US over the last couple of years and I strongly believe in the plans and potential of US football.
“I am therefore dedicated to making the next 10-15 years a big success and will do my utmost to help the team play for titles,” he added.
“Sergino called me this morning to explain to me the reasons for his choice. I respect his decision,” Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman told Dutch television.
Dest could make his competitive debut on Nov.15 whentheusteamplayscanadaatorlando,florida, in the CONCACAF Nations League.
“I think the important point is just reiterating him being part of our programme, what he’s done in our programme and how he’s performed at the U-17 level and the U-20 level. He’s played in a couple World Cups for us. To him there’s a comfort to that, and it’s nice to hear that from him and for him to appreciate how we’ve been there for him,” said US head coach Gregg Berhalter.
Herevealedlastmonthhehadbeenapproached by officials from the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) about a possible international career for the Netherlands.