Holland - great players but they just can't get on.

Filed in archive Euro 2008 on June 9, 2008

What is it with the Dutch team that they just can't get on with each other? Over the past few years they have arguably been the most talented group of players in the world, but internal spats between players and between coaches and players have meant that the camp is not a happy one.

Of course, it is very difficult for any team to win anything if there is not a good spirit amongst the players.

The Dutch people are known for their friendly and liberal characters and for being very 'laid back'. This doesn't seem to apply to their footballers. Already in Euro 2008 we have stories of problems from within the Holland camp. Arsenal's Robin van Persie and Real Madrid star Wesley Sneijder clashed in training ahead of the Netherlands' game with Italy. the clash has been played down by all parties but it obviously happened, none the less.

It is a really hard one to explain but history proves that the Dutch footballers are not able to get on. Prior to this current tournament the notoriously difficult Clarence Seedorf had said that he couldn't play because he was unable to work with manager Marco Van Basten anymore.

On the field, this simmering discontent in the dressing rooms has often led to under achievement. Last night, they took the field against the current world champions amidst stories of them being a very unhappy camp.

You certainly wouldn't have known it if you watched the game. In their 3-0 win Holland played some exceptional football and scored two of the best counter attacking goals you are ever likely to see. If they can keep together and keep playing like this, they will be favourites to win the title.

However, with Holland you never know. It is a very big if.