A HOLL LOTTA LOVE FOR CODY
Van Gaal says Dutch striker has world at his feet after Oranje boom
LOUIS VAN GAAL is backing Cody Gakpo to add a few million to his price tag by shining in Holland’s pursuit of World Cup glory.
The PSV Eindhoven star has been linked with Arsenal and Manchester United, and has proved his worth with two goals in two games, including a stunning strike in the 1-1 draw with Ecuador.
Dutch boss Van Gaal reckons there is plenty more to come from a player who already looks like he belongs at the game’s highest level.
“I had more or less expected that he would evolve this way, but I believe he’s going to evolve even further, much further,” Van Gaal declared.
“It’s marvellous that he can do this on the world stage.”
Van Gaal is determined to prove his side can also finally perform on the biggest stage as they chase a maiden World Cup win.
The Dutch have reached the final three times, but never lifted the trophy. Van Gaal, who is in his third spell as manager, oversaw a third-place finish at the 2014 World Cup.
After victory over Senegal and a point against Ecuador, the last 16 awaits if Holland avoid defeat against hosts Qatar today, although Van Gaal has his sights on going much further than that. “I hope saying the target is to win the competition is no pressure at all,” he said.
“You always have to identify the goal, the purpose for which you are here, and then you can work your way towards that purpose. If you don’t identify that purpose and say ‘the last 16 or the quarter-finals is enough’, that isn’t the right way to do things.
“I never said we’re going to become world champion, I said we can become it, that we have a chance, and the players have become convinced of that.”
The Oranje are unbeaten in 17 matches, and Van Gaal claimed that record means they deserve to be considered genuine contenders for the biggest prize of all. “By and large, they have performed really well and I’m just assuming that will continue,” the 71-year-old said.
“I try to make sure every player reaches his full potential, and I’m quite successful. We are unbeaten for 17 matches, and if you look at the goal difference, I think that we deserve some respect.” At the same press conference, Frenkie de Jong, refused to be drawn on Manchester United’s long-standing interest in him. He said: “I am at a World Cup tournament. I am not going to talk about club football.”
It was put to De Jong that he looked a little unwell. “I just have a sore throat and didn’t sleep that well. But I feel great,” he replied. Qatar are already out, but boss Felix Sanchez insisted there is no shame in the host’s early exit. He said: “I don’t feel embarrassed. These players have shown they can compete.”