The Netherlands, winners of the competition in 2017, gathered earlier this week to start preparations for the 2025 Women's Euros in Switzerland. Manager Andries Jonker saw an energised team after a short holiday.
"The energy is palpable during training," Jonker told NOS. "The level is good again. We went to Lourdes. We recharged our batteries. We recharged our power. We recharged our enthusiasm. They're back on track."
It will be Jonker's final tournament as manager of the Oranje Lionesses after the KNVB announced his contract will not be renewed. The experienced boss wants to go for it all on his last dance.
"You know that this is your last time preparing for a tournament. I am aware of that. But apart from that, it doesn't affect me. We are doing everything we can to perform as well as possible," said Jonker to ANP.
"For the golden generation, winning the European Championship in 2017 was the highlight. They know what it feels like to be successful. We need to go for our chances again."
Miedema
Star striker Vivianne Miedema hasn't played a game since injuring her hamstring in March, but is practicing without restrictions again and looks ready for the tournament.
"Today she participated in the entire training session. She can participate fully in the game, she is not being spared. She is on track. It's not quite where it needs to be yet, but we still have time."
Lineth Beerensteyn, the only other question mark in the Dutch squad, missed the first practice before the Euros.
The Women's Euros will take place between July 2-27 in Switzerland. The Netherlands have been drawn in Group D, along with Wales, and giants France and England.
