This Friday, Genk got wind of what awaits him in League Europa this season. But that’s not so much what quibbles John van den Brom. Genk’s coach returned to the selection of the Red Devils. And the least we can say is that he is unhappy!
Once again, Theo Bongonda and Bryan Heynen (or even Mike Trésor) were not selected by the Catalan. “What else do these guys have to do?”, the Dutch coach got angry in remarks relayed by Het Laatste Nieuws. “They’re called into a prescreen to keep up appearances. I’m really disappointed. While these guys are laughing cynically. That says enough and I think it’s pretty sad.”
The Dutchman does not understand the coach’s selections. “What is the point of the preselection? Martinez explains that the choices are made according to a constant level of play. However, Heynen and Bongonda performed at a very high level for many weeks.” He then attacked the Spanish coach personally. “My vision might be biased, but you can’t afford to say they’re close to that level. Because that’s what he says every time. Find another excuse for once!”
Difficult to prove him wrong on purely sporting criteria. At least for the winger. Since arriving in Limburg, he has performed extremely well. From a statistical point of view as in terms of its regularity. Last year, the Carolo compiled 18 goals and 10 assists in 39 games. Of which some roses were very important like the one planted in the final of the Croky Cup. This season, he left on the same basis with 4 achievements in as many meetings. Nevertheless, he is still shunned by the national coach.
“Look, Bongonda might not suit Martinez’s playstyle. But say so!”, a poursuivi Van den Brom. “I was really curious about this selection. Because the Euro was not a success for Belgium. Would it change things? In my opinion, he did not do it. And what he says n This is not correct either. Namely that he only appeals to long-term performing and consistent players at their club. On that basis both my players deserve it. It is not sincere towards these two elements that demonstrate every week that they have a great added value. “
For him, things must change. “These are not 18 or 19 year old boys. They are top, mature players. They have been playing at a certain level for a long time. As a national coach you can treat them differently, I think. “
In their place, Martinez preferred to opt for continuity. With elements that already knew the group like De Ketelaere, Verschaeren, Lukebakio or Dennis Praet and Sambi Lokonga. Players who are not all titular with their club. What infuriates John van den Brom.
