Ronald Koeman slams Liverpool new boy Ryan Gravenberch for ditching international duty
The Mirror Ronald Koeman has blasted Ryan Gravenberch, insisting he is "not happy" with Liverpool's new signing refusing to play for the Netherlands Under-21s side.
Gravenberch joined the Reds on deadline day and had been in line to be called up for the junior Netherlands side for the upcoming international break. But the midfielder has instead decided to pull himself out of contention, given his late arrival at Anfield.
That decision has not gone down well at the Dutch FA, with national team boss Koeman and Under-21s manager Michael Reiziger both taking aim at Gravenberch. Koeman highlighted what happened with Jeremie Frimpong, who previously refused to play for the U21s.
"We are not happy with Ryan Gravenberch refusing to play for his country. We don't like it when players refuse to play for the U21 team," Koeman said ahead of the senior side's games against Greece and Ireland.
"Nigel de Jong (technical director KNVB) has spoken with Jeremie Frimpong about this. He still wants to play for us, but we decided he will not be called up. You can see it as punishment. I believe you are obliged to play for your country."
