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Journalist calls for Tottenham star to be dropped from national XI amid £90m transfer reveal

A reputed journalist has called for the dropping of an experienced Tottenham star from the national side after his struggles during the international break. Spurs…

Published: Sunday, 4 October 2026 at 6:05 PM
Journalist calls for Tottenham star to be dropped from national XI amid £90m transfer reveal
Key Things to Know
  • Journalist Valentijn Driessen urged Netherlands coach Xavi to drop Micky van de Ven and start Ian Maatsen.
  • Driessen criticized Van de Ven's form at left-back following the Netherlands' 2-2 draw against Greece.
  • Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Van de Ven in a deal worth around £90m.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Journalist Valentijn Driessen has urged Netherlands manager Xavi to drop Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven from the national team's starting lineup. Speaking on De Telegraaf's Kick Off Podcast, Driessen criticized Van de Ven's recent performances at left-back, including in a 2-2 draw against Greece, and recommended starting Aston Villa's Ian Maatsen instead.

The debate over Van de Ven's role comes amid reports that Manchester United and Liverpool are interested in signing the defender for roughly £90m. Spurs Web highlights Tottenham's potential concerns over the physical demands of playing Van de Ven at left-back, given his history of hamstring injuries.

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