AZ: Leeroy Echteld points out Wesley's mixed performance
By OnzeActu · · 5 min read
Wesley Hoedt, returning to AZ Alkmaar after eleven years, had a mixed evening during the Conference League match against Hapoel Beer Sheva. Although he regained a starting place, the Dutch international was feverish on the opposing goal, sparking some measured criticism from his coach, Leeroy Echteld.
According to Vi.
Context
Wesley Hoedt, aged 32, returned to AZ Alkmaar after a spell in Italy and England. His experience as a Dutch international and his role as a central defender are crucial for the team, especially in the Conference League. Playing alongside Wouter Goes, he must adapt quickly to avoid costly mistakes like the one that led to Hapoel Be'er Sheva's goal.
Why it matters
Wesley Hoedt's return to AZ Alkmaar after eleven years is a significant moment for the club and the player. His experience could be crucial for the team, especially in the Conference League competition, where every match counts for the club's progress. However, his mixed performance raises questions about his form and adaptation after a long absence.
Key points
- AZ: Leeroy Echteld points out Wesley's mixed performance.
- Wesley Hoedt, returning to AZ Alkmaar after eleven years, had a mixed evening during the Conference League match against Hapoel Beer Sheva.
- Echteld kritisch op Hoedt na ongelukkig moment bij AZ-rentree.
This Thursday, all eyes were on Wesley Hoedt on the occasion of his first start with AZ Alkmaar since his departure from the club in 2015. The Dutch international (32) made his big return to the AZ squad during a Conference League match against Hapoel Beer Sheva.
Positioned as a central hinge alongside Wouter Goes, Hoedt had to replace the usual holder Lewis Schouten, usually in high demand in recent weeks. “As you know, Lewis goes through a lot of matches, which he wasn't used to doing before. We want to avoid overworking him,” explained coach Leeroy Echteld at a press conference after his team’s victory.
This match thus offered a great opportunity for Hoedt to find his rhythm, he who was also returning from injury. However, his return was not easy. Involved in the goal conceded by his team, the experienced central defender made an error of judgment in the decisive action. “I thought he gave a decent performance overall. It was his first game in a long time, and he was even injured recently. But on the opposing goal, he should have cleared the ball directly. In this position, it is not his favorite side, and he must not let himself be surprised like this,” explained Echteld.
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The technician nevertheless prefers to put things into perspective, keen to gradually revive his player: “The objective is for Wesley to get back into shape and get minutes. If we have to count on him later, he will have the legs to keep up with the competition. »
As a reminder, Hoedt left AZ in 2015 to continue his career at Lazio, before returning this summer to his training club. His integration into central defense will be closely observed, as AZ Alkmaar continues its European campaign and seeks to preserve the freshness of its defensive framework.
This lackluster performance is a reminder of the demands of the high level, and in particular the importance of concentration for experienced defenders. Echteld's measured analysis reflects a clear desire: to allow Hoedt to regain his automatisms while avoiding compromising the defensive solidity of the team, essential in the rigor of continental competitions.
The rest
Wesley Hoedt is expected to continue to gain pace and confidence in upcoming matches, particularly in the Conference League. Coach Leeroy Echteld seems ready to give him more playing time to help him get back to his best. Hoedt's future performances will be key to strengthening AZ's defense, especially with important matches coming up.
Frequently asked questions
What happened when Wesley Hoedt returned to AZ?
Wesley Hoedt made his return as a starter for AZ Alkmaar in a Conference League match against Hapoel Be'er Sheva, after leaving the club in 2015.
Who confirmed Wesley Hoedt's tenure?
It was coach Leeroy Echteld who confirmed the start of Wesley Hoedt during the press conference after the match.
Why was Wesley Hoedt started now?
Hoedt was started to compensate for the absence of Lewis Schouten, who had played a lot of matches recently, in order to avoid overtaking him.
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How did Wesley Hoedt perform during his return?
Wesley Hoedt had a mixed performance, making an error on the goal conceded by his team, but the coach judged his performance to be correct overall.
What changes are planned for Wesley Hoedt in the next matches?
Coach Leeroy Echteld wants to gradually relaunch Wesley Hoedt so that he regains form and can keep up with the competition in the matches to come.
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Frequently asked questions
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