Joey Veerman has returned to the Dutch national team after a two-year absence. The Dortmund midfielder told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf: "I'm really looking forward to playing for my country."

Veerman doesn't believe former coach Ronald Koeman sidelined him for too long. "No. I made a great transfer, and for me, it's also a new beginning with the Dutch team. So why look back? That makes no sense."

The former PSV Eindhoven player now has a clearer impression of coach Xavi. "We've had several meetings, and he clearly explained how we'll proceed and what he wants to see. He works hard to teach us how to play, and he often talks about how we'll handle the ball. I think that's very good and clear."

Veerman has not yet had an in-depth discussion with Xavi. "No, I haven't had a personal conversation with him yet, but I think he called me up based on what he's seen. I hope we can play attractive football. I'm really looking forward to it."

Having returned to the Dutch team, Veerman hopes to get some playing time in Thursday's match against Germany, their first opponent in the Nations League. Especially since he will encounter several Dortmund teammates there.

"I still hope to play a bit against those guys, because we've already chatted in the locker room with Nmecha and Schlotterbeck. It'll be interesting to see them again in three days," Veerman said. He has also noticed the difference between PSV Eindhoven and Dortmund.

"Last week we played Paderborn at home. It's very different from how PSV Eindhoven plays against weaker Eredivisie teams at home. The difference is huge, not just the level, but also the overall quality of the players. The pressing methods, the all-out one-on-one duels, everything is different," the defensive midfielder concluded.

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