Summerville targets decisive Netherlands display against Greece
Crysencio Summerville is targeting another decisive Netherlands display when Oranje visit Group 2 leaders Greece in Thessaloniki on Thursday night, with the Al-Hilal winger determined to turn his growing international influence into goals and assists.
Greece trip offers Summerville another chance
The Rotterdam-born forward has been included in every Netherlands matchday squad since making his senior debut during the World Cup build-up. He now heads to the Toumba Stadium looking to help Xavi Hernandez’s side overtake Greece at the top of the group.
Summerville made a key contribution in Sunday’s 2-1 win away to Serbia in Belgrade, winning the penalty from which Mexx Meerdink opened the scoring.
- Netherlands face Greece in Thessaloniki on Thursday evening.
- Greece begin the match as Group 2 leaders.
- Oranje then host Serbia in Eindhoven on Sunday.
- Summerville wants to add end product after his penalty-winning role in Belgrade.
Xavi sees elite potential in winger
Hernandez has praised Summerville’s intensity, work rate and capacity to contribute to the collective, while also backing the attacker to decide games through his individual quality.
The Netherlands coach believes Summerville possesses the ambition and desire needed to develop into a leading player. The winger has also welcomed Hernandez’s direct approach and has been working closely with assistant coach Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Al-Hilal move has not changed long-term target
Summerville’s summer departure from West Ham United for Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal drew attention after interest from major European teams. He accepts that money played a part in the decision, but insists his football plan remains fixed on reaching the highest level in Europe.
Working daily with personal trainer Ivandro Monteiro, Summerville says he has mapped out a route towards becoming one of Europe’s outstanding attackers. He credits strong belief in his own ability for his swift rise with the national team.
The next test comes in Greece, where a strong starting performance could strengthen both his case in Xavi’s plans and the Netherlands’ push for first place in Group 2.
