Doubt we see DeJong at all in next game given he went 70 tonite. He looked tentative early on but worked into it as the game went along. It's great to see him standing in the passing lanes on Hungary and intercepting the pass without having to get stuck in. He reads the game so well and moves the ball effortlessly. That midfield will get much better as they get to know each other. Basically agree with the rest, but thought van Hecke was solid and adventurous having Virgil standing behind him. Team really needs a striker though.
I thought Van Hecke recovered quite well after his mistake in the opening minutes… grew in confidence, and (seemingly) won all of his duels. Good on the ball, active in the attacking build up. J. Timber in the left back was a refreshing look, and could work long term… he is comfortable on the ball, and gets into the attacking third with ease. Almost like an extra midfielder, which is helpful playing against team that park-the-bus. Excellent start of the dream midfield trio (Gravenberch, Frenkie and Reijnders) playing together… I hope to see more of this in the future!! Keep in mind that Frenkieplayed cautiously (and was maybe 60-70% of his top gear), while Reijnders was quite subdued except for one header that stretched the GK. If this trio are firing in all cylinders and click with each other, watch out… they are undoubtedly one of the most balanced midfield combination out there! And having Koopmeiners coming off the bench feels like luxury. Gakpo was terrific. Malen was not bad. Weghorst… hmm, I had a hard time seeing him fitting in this team. He looked slow and lost, while everybody around him was so fast and furious circulating the balls. Maybe he’s better suited as a pinch-hitter (as he’s always been). I like to see Brobbey or Zirkzee. And, Frimpong as RW is a real menace!