Kees Smit is a name Liverpool supporters have been seeing more often in recent months, and the latest development only adds to that interest.
The AZ Alkmaar midfielder has now been called up to the senior Netherlands set-up for the first time, which is a notable step in itself and another sign of how highly he is rated.
Breaking into the Dutch senior picture is not handed out lightly, and with Smit already linked with Liverpool, it gives the situation extra relevance.
Who is Kees Smit?
- Name: Kees Smit
- Age: 19
- Club: AZ Alkmaar
- Position: Central midfield/Defensive midfield
- Senior appearances: 50
- Senior goals: 4
- Nationality: Dutch
There is also the simple fact that this is a huge jump in level. The Netherlands squad is stacked with quality and experience, none more befitting than Virgil van Dijk.
Kees Smit on experiencing the top level and playing with Virgil van Dijk
That is exactly how Smit himself sees it, with the midfielder saying in his first reaction to the call-up (via ESPN NL): “Yeah, I’m just curious whether I can keep up with the level.
“There are obviously very good players there. I’m really looking forward to that. They’re all top players, so I think that’s really great.”
He then made clear just how special this step feels when asked who he was most excited to face in training.
Smit said: “Well, actually, everyone. Virgil van Dijk, for example, that will be amazing. He’s obviously a top player. But yeah, all those big players, really. I’m just really excited.”
That is the line Liverpool supporters will notice most.
Van Dijk is still one of the defining figures in Dutch football, and who knows? The experience could sway him towards a move to Merseyside this summer.
The Netherlands might have more than enough for a proper World Cup push
Smit might not get much of a look in, but that says more about the Dutch national team’s quality than it does about his own talent.
Just in midfield, he’s vying for a spot over Ryan Gravenberch, Frenkie De Jong, and Tijjani Reijnders to name but a few. Then you have a world-class defence made up of Premier League talent like Micky van de Ven, Nathan Ake, Jurrien Timber and Van Dijk.
Which Liverpool player would you most like to see lift the World Cup this summer?
And which one has the best chance…
Add to that talents like Xavi Simons, Cody Gakpo, Donyell Malen and Jeremie Frimpong, and you have a dangerous side that can cause anyone problems.
Maybe the Dutch contingent of the Liverpool squad will hoist the trophy in July.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
