Former Chelsea boss and Netherlands legend Ruud Gullit has accused Virgil van Dijk and Frenkie de Jong of lacking leadership qualities in a scathing attack.
The Euro 1988 winner has hit out at the Dutch duo following the recent defeats to Croatia and Italy in the Nations League.
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Croatia beat Ronald Koeman’s side 4-2 in the Nations League semi-final, before losing 3-2 against Italy in the third-placed play-off.
Defensive frailties were on show in the two matches, with Netherlands’ senior players criticised for not turning up.
And Gullit, who has been no stranger to lambasting Van Dijk in the past, once again took aim at the Liverpool centre-back – along with Barcelona midfielder De Jong.
Writing for De Telegraaf, the AC Milan icon said: “I have been looking for arguments to defend Koeman and the internationals in the Nations League.
“After all, I have also been a player and you do not like this to happen in a big football event organised in your country.
“After a tremendous fight, I can’t defend Koeman and his players. Did you feel like going on vacation?”
The ex-Newcastle manager continued: “Despite the fact that they are idolised by some people in the Netherlands, often to loud applause, I find that these two important players do not measure up when necessary.
“They do not reach the level that can be required of them as decisive international leaders.
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“I think Van Dijk and De Jong don’t have leadership skills.
“Actually, I’m asking them for something they don’t have. They need more attention to their own game.
“It’s difficult for a coach to work without leaders on the pitch and it’s supposed to be that Van Dijk and De Jong should be those leaders.”
