Dutch legend Johan Cruyff has thrown his weight behind Frank Rijkaard to become Holland’s new national team coach.

 

Bert van Marwijk recently left his post after a disappointing Euro 2012 which saw the Oranje, who were amongst the pre-tournament favourites, fail to get out of Group B.

 

And while it was accepted in Holland that a group containing Denmark, Portugal and Germany would be a tough task, the country losing all of their matches was a big blow – and Van Marwijk had no hesitation in falling on his sword.

 

Who Holland appoint as Van Marwijk’s successor is an area of huge debate, but Cruyff has championed former Barcelona boss Rijkaard, who has coached his country before, between 1998 and 2000.

 

"Rijkaard has proved at the highest level what his qualities are and he has dared to make radical changes", said Cruyff.

 

"Working at club level is different from a national team, but the point is that the new coach must put in process a period of renewal.

 

"The Dutch team must start again with a new staff and changes to the players.

 

"The question is whether Frank wants it. I do not know.

 

"In any case, I hope the KNVB (Dutch FA, ed.) make a wise choice, because we still have many good players available, especially in attack. We must build towards the World Cup to produce something beautiful."

 

Latest Features: