Meerdink was preferred to Troy Parrott for the first time in the Europa League. The Irish striker was not fully fit to kick off. “It’s a nice reward, because I’ve been showing it lately,” says Meerdink.
The only 21-year-old striker had to compete against direct opponent Mats Hummels, who became world champion with Germany in 2014. “I had to say that he was quite smart. But I think I can be satisfied with my performance,” said Meerdink, who had not played against a defender of this caliber before.
Competitive struggle
A competitive battle gradually breaks out at the point of attack. Meerdink and Troy Parrott bring out the best in each other. And while Meerdink was important as a substitute a number of times, Troy Parrott proved his worth as a substitute against AS Roma. “This is how we make each other stronger and better. That’s the beauty of it.”
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