Trainer Sjors Ultee has delivered a world performance by keeping Fortuna Sittard in the Eredivisie. That says Geert-Jan Jakobs, who follows the Sittard club for Voetbal International.
Jakobs believes that Fortuna should be the first to talk to Ultee to keep the trainer for the Sittardians. Ultee still has a contract with Fortuna until next season.
Blood-curdling
Fortuna Sittard was able to extend the Eredivisie on Sunday afternoon with a 0-1 win at NEC. After an early goal by Zian Flemming, it was mainly a stop for Sjors Ultee’s team. Particularly in the final phase, NEC had great opportunities to score the equalizer. A goal that would have meant direct relegation for Fortuna: “It was blood-curdling”, Jakobs looks back. “I have rarely seen a game like this where one goal can have such an impact.”
Also read: Joy at Fortuna after enforcement: ‘Extreme tension’
World Achievement
Jakobs believes that Ultee has an important part in enforcing Fortuna. “Just insist that you have to make a machine from players from all walks of life and of all levels. He has succeeded. A world achievement.” According to the journalist of Voetbal International, it is difficult to say where Ultee will stand as a trainer in ten years, but Jakobs does notice enthusiasm about Fortuna’s trainer. “Erik ten Hag was always enthusiastic about him and has said to me that he wants to work with Ultee again someday.”
Azerion
According to Jakobs, enforcement is not only important for Fortuna Sittard in terms of sport, but also financially for the people of Sittard. “I understand that the Turkish investor Azerion now really wants to take financial steps and that all would have faltered in the Kitchen Champion Division. So it is crucial enforcement if that money actually comes.”
Transfers
Money will probably also come from transfers. Zian Flemming made it clear after the game on Sunday that he expects to leave and Mats Seuntjens is also expected to leave Sittard. “In addition, a lot of (rental) contracts are expiring,” adds Jakobs. “The technical people are going to have a busy summer.” According to Jakobs, Ultee should also be discussed. “It should be the first step to keep him on board. I think he has proven that he can work with players in development.”