Feyenoord News 2003

Elmander to return to Feyenoord

03 Apr 2003

Feyenoord striker Johan Elmander, who is currently on loan to Swedish side Djurgardens  is to be given a second chance after his impressive performances for Djurgardens. The 21-year-old will be returning to Holland in the summer for Feyenoord's pre-season training. Gaining a first team place shall still be very hard for the striker as he will have to compete with Pierre van Hooijdonk and new buy Dirk Kuyt, for a first team place. , who will arrive from Utrecht in the summer.

De Nooijer one more year with Feyenoord

25 Mar 2003

34-year-old defender Gerard de Noooijer, who swapped Heerenveen for Feyenoord during the winter-transfer window, has signed a new deal with the Rotterdammers. De Nooijer surprised friend and foe by immediately gaining a first team place in Feyenoord's sqaud when it was first doubted if he could adjust to the level of football required in Rotterdam.

Foppe hopiong for draw against Feyenoord

22 Mar 2003

Feyenoord haven't lost a game since the 7th December last year when they lost 3-1 in the Abe Leenstra stadium, to Heerenveen. This evening both teams meet again and Feyenoord will surely be looking for revenge.  Feyenoord have a couple of injury problems with Kalou still suffering from his ankle injury picked up against NEC and Robin van Persie also doubtful with a badly buised toe. Further absentees on Feyenoord's side are Christian Gyan (hamstring) Ebi Smolarek (ankle) and Chong-gug Song (achilles). Although Heerenveen are more or less without injuries Foppe de Haan's Heerenveen travel off to Rotterdam knowing that they have never managed to win from Feyenoord in "De Kuip". In 10 games they have lost eight of them with the other matches ending in draws. "Heerenveen have not been very lucky in Rotterdam so far," said De Haan. "I would be happy with a draw

Feyenoord matches against Asian clubs

21 Mar 2003

Feynoord have already begun their preparations for next season after planning two matches against their Asian stars former clubs. On June 4th Feyenoord are to take part in the Saitama City Cup against Shinji Ono's old club Urawa Red Diamonds. Afterwards Feyenoord will travel on to South Korea where a match has beenplanned for 6th June agasinst Chong-Gug Song's old cluib, Pusan I-cons.

PSV and Feyenoord battle for Chun-soo Lee

19 Mar 2003

According to reports in several Korean newspapers Feyenoord look set to win the battle for Korean talent Chun-soo Lee. However, Lee's management bureau Skycomm stated that they already have an agreement with PSV but, that if Feyenooed were prepared to offer more for the gifted left-winger, then they would be prepared to listen.  PSV trainer Hddink is very keen to add the striker to his squad, knowing of the players qualities from his previous experience as Korea's national coach.  Last season Lee was voted "Rookie of the Year" by the influential sports newspaper "Sportsseoul" and since then has impressed in Korea's Olympic team against Holland and more recently in Korea's national team's match against World Champions Brazil. After that match  Brazil's coach Zagallo stated that Lee was the best man on the field and Brazilian international Robert Carlos added "That number 14 was amazing".

Shinji Ono receives Japan call-up

17 Mar 2003

Feynoord's wizard Shinji Ono has been called up by trainer Zico to represent his country in their two friendly matches against Uruguay and the U,S.A later this month.  In spite of the war crisis in the middle-east, Zico still believes that the games that are planned for 26th and 29th March, will not be cancelled.  Ono will not have to miss any of Feyenoord's matches as the Dutch league is closed during the period as Holland face the Czech Republic in a European 2004 qualification match.

Parma follow Feyenoord's Shinji Ono

16 Mar 2003

Italian side Parma have been sighted at Feyenoord matches recently and are reported to be keeping a keen eye on Japanese star Shinji Ono. Parma, who already have Japanese midfielder Hidotoshi Nakata in their squad, are more than aware of Ono's marketing value. Since joining Feyenoord Ono has proven to be a little merchandising 'goldmine' for club - there is so much interest in the 'Japanese Wizard' that the club have shipped off more than 100,000 no.14 shirts to Japan to try and satisfy demand.  If Feyenoord would be prepared to let Ono go remains to be seen. Ono has proven to be key player this season and his on pitch value has now far outgrown his merchandising value.

Feyenoord miss key players against NEC

16 Mar 2003

Pierre van Hooijdonk is Feyenoord's latest flu victim and the Rotterdammers may well have to do without the prolific striker for today's confrontation with NEC adding yet another worry for trainer van Marwijk. Van Hooijdonk is the third Feyenoord player to be caught by a flu bug which has already claimed Paul Bosvelt and Shinji Ono and forcing Van Hooijdonk to leave training on Friday. Bert van Marwijk is expected to link up Robin van Persie with Thomas Buffel in attack in the absence of his star man. Another absentee in the Feyenoord squad is Chong-Gug Song who will almost certainly have to miss today's match due to an achilles injury. He is also unlikely to join up with South Korea's squad for the friendly against Colombia on March 29.

Feyenoord still interested in 'Fred'

12 Mar 2003

Although snubbed last week by Frederico Chaves Guades, Feyoornd still hope to secure a deal with the America-MG midfielder. 'Fred' was apparently not interested in the advances from Feyenoord staying that he had no interest in undertaking a trial with Feyenoord. The player also stated that he would be prepared to make the move to Holland but was not prepared to have to prove himself to the club via a trial. Feyenoord, who have an agreement with America-MG which allows them to bring over one player per season from the club`s youth system. The Rotterdammers have following 'Fred's' progress and are impressed with his development this year. Feyenoord would have to pay at least $1 million for the player which is their main reason why they want to take him on trial first.

Rush for Bonaventure Kalou can now begin

11 Mar 2003

Feyenoord's chairmain Jorien van den Herik has stated on Feyenoord-TV that if any club should come with a reasonable offer for their Ivory Coast striker Bonaventure Kalou then they will accept it, pathing the way for any club who are in search of an exciting wing-striker. With the recent purchase of Utrecht striker Dirk Kuyt, Van den Herik believes that the club have too many strikers in their squad...

Chong-gug Song has to rest ankle injury

11 Mar 2003

According to Feyenoord's website Feyenoord.nl the club will have to miss Korean international Chong-gug Song for Sunday's away match against NEC due to an inflammation of his achilles.  Song has only just returned from an ankle injury which kept him out of action for three months. Feyenoord's club doctor Linschoten did state however that the swelling had almost gone but that the club wanted to be careful. "We have to be careful, these kind of injuries have a leaning towards becoming persistent. That's why he has to take some rest until Thursday and he can't play against NEC. After that it all depends on how the injury develops."

Emerton ' Oceania Footballer of the Year'

10 Mar 2003

Feyenoord's Australian international Brett Emerton has been won the prestigious Oceania Footballer of the Year award, beating off the competition from Leeds United forward Kewell and Middlesbrough keeper Schwarzer who respectively 2nd and thrid. "It is a great achievement after finishing third in the previous year, and another boost for Australia and Oceania," said Emerton. Oceania president Basil Scarsella stated that he believes it would be in the players best interests if he were to move to a stronger league. "Emerton has done very well in his career, and I think the best is still to come for him in the stronger leagues of England, Italy and Spain. I'm sure we'll see him in those leagues, sooner rather than later."

Preview Feyenoord-Excelsior derby

07 Mar 2003

Excelsior receive big-brother Feyenoord tonight in an interesting  Rotterdam derby. Excelsior's squad is a combination of  second rate players combined with Feyenoord talents that are unable to secure a first team place with the UEFA Cup holder but who will do their utmost this evening to impress, hoping for a quick return to 'De Kuip'.  Excelsior are forced to miss 5 of their key players tonight. Four players are hampered by injuries ( Michel Breuer, Civard Sprockel, Bart Fiegel and Dennis Jos) and Leo Koswal is suspended for tonight's confrontation. Excelsior trainer Coster has also seen his team drop to 15th place after a good run at the beggining of the season and they are now just one place outside the relegation play-off zone.  "The only way we can turn around our poor run is by working hard as a squad. With matches against Feyenoord and Ajax every point you get is profit, but normally those teams are too strong. We must work hard in the coming weeks and make the team ready for the more important matches against other relegation candidates like Groningen and Zwolle."  Excelsior can find some encouragement in the fact that Feyeoord are also faced with a number of injuries in their sqaud. Gerard de Nooijer will have to miss tonighth's match after bruising ribs in Feyenoord's 3-1 Amstel Cup win over Vitesse forcing Patrick Paauwe to move up to midfield. Feyenoord trainer Bert van Marwijk stated that this was a real setback for Feyenoord.

Feyenoord trial for Australian Burns

07 Mar 2003

Feyenoord are to test 24 year old Australian defender Jacob Burns later this month. The Leeds United bench-sitter who previously played for Australian side Parramatta Power, will spend two weeks in Holland where he will be given the chance to impress either Feyenoord or their sister club Excelsior. If Burns succeeds in earning a contract with the Rotterdammers, he will be joining fellow Australian, Brett Emerton.

Kees van Wonderen pens 1 year extension

07 Mar 2003

Feyenoord defender Kees Van Wonderen, whose contract runs out at the end of this season and who had already stated that he was keen to sign a new contract extension with the club has penned a new 1 year deal. The 34 year old central defender canl now finish off his career with the Rotterdammers where he has been employed since 1996.

Frederico Chaves Guedes snubs Feyenoord

06 Mar 2003

Brazilian midfielder Frederico Chaves Guedes has claimed that he has snubbed advances from Feyenoord staying that he had no interest in undertaking a trial with Feyenoord. The player also stated that he would be prepared to make the move to Holland but was not prepared to have to prove himself to the club via a trial. "Feyenoord want me to go there for a period of adaptation, but for me it does not sound good. They are saying that I need to adapt myself to the cold, to the food, but playing football already I have passed hunger. So I am not thinking about Holland. The only difference between Brazil and Europe is the money, and to go there I would need good conditions."

Dirk Kuyt officially Feyenoorder

05 Mar 2003

Utrecht striker Dirk Kuijt has finally penned the long awaited Feyenoord contract. Although FootballNL reported earlier that Kuyt had signed a four year deal, up til now there had only been denials from both parties. However after last night's 1-3 Amstel Cup win over Excelsior, Kuyt stated that he was extremely glad to have signed for the Rotterdammers. Kuyt also stated that Ajax had show interest in him but that he was already holding talks with Feyenoord.  "I'm happy that I can now talk about it. Ajax also informed my agent that they were interested in me but I was already holding talks with Feyenoord. It wasn't a difficult choice either. This is the club were I wanted to go to. I'm proud to be a Feyenoorder and I can't wait to play with Van Hooijdonk"

Leonardo returns to Feyenoord's first team

05 Mar 2003

Feyenoord's Brazilian forward Leonard, who has been injured since the start of the competition has been given the green light to return to the Feyenoord first team. Leonardo first injured himself at the start of the season after colliding with team-mate Robin van Persie. Leonardo will first need a few games with Feyenoord's reserve team before making the final step towards securing a first team place.

Bayern Munchen target Feyenoord's Buffel

27 Feb 2003

Feyenoord's 20 year-old midfielder-striker Thomas Buffel, has been targeted by Bundesliga leader, Bayern Munchen as a possible replacement for Giovane Elber who is planning to leave for sunny Spain this summer.  Buffel came to Holland in 1999 from Cercle Brugge, where he was regarded as showing much promise, and was then loaned out to satellite side Excelsior where he developed into a formidable striker. Since his return to Feyenoord at the beginning of the season he has managed to secure a first team place.

Nam-Il Kim has quality but lacks condition

25 Feb 2003

Feyenoord's new Korean signing Nam–Il Kim who has been loaned out to sister club Excelsior for the rest of the season, has impressed his new trainer Adrie Koster during his first training with the club with his skills but not with his condition. Kim's last match was against Go Ahead Eagles a month ago, since then the talented Korean international has not played one game.  Koster: "His last match was against The Eagles a month ago. We must now work hard on his condition which will need additional training." adding "We can make good use of the player and Today you can see that he possess enormous qualities. It's to early to say whether he will be fit in time for Saturday's match but one thing is sure we can definately make use of him"

Dirk Kuyt pens 4 year deal with Feyenoord

25 Feb 2003

Johan Dirksen, sport journalist and editor of the weekly football magazine 'Voetbal International'  has stated on the Dutch sports program "Voetbalinsite" that Utrecht forward Dirk Kuyt has penned a four deal with Feyenoord. Feyenoord have made several attempts to lure the striker away from his present club but Utrecht were up till now not willing to let him go. How Feyenoord have managed to do a deal whilst the transfer window is closed remains to be seen.

Feyenoord faced with Keepers problems

22 Feb 2003

Feyenoord are once again faced with four injured goalkeepers and may well have to field fifth choice Van Wegen. Feyenoord are trying frantically to get either Patrick Lodewijks or Edwin Zoetebier fit in time for tomorrow'ss league match against Groningen but the prospect are bleak.  Patrick Lodewijks, who celebrated his 36th birthday yesterday, is still plagued by a  skin infection and is more serious than first suspected. Zoetabier, who has been out of action for the past four months, played for Feyenoord's reserve team last Thursday but after the game felt to much discomfort with his injured knee. The goalkeeper is to undergo an MRI scan today and Feyenoord will decide after the scan whether they will take the risk with Zoetabier.

Peter Collen out of action with ankle injury

18 Feb 2003

Feyenoord defender Pieter Collen who is currently on loan with NAC for the rest of the season, will be out of action for the next few weeks after injuring his ankle in the 39th minute of his debut match for NAC last Sunday. Medical tests have revealed that the injury-prone Belgian player has few bone splinters floating around in the ankle that has plagued him since November. Collen will now have to take a few weeks rest to see if the ailment can heal itself.

Patrick Paauwe unhappy as left-back

18 Feb 2003

Feyenoord midfielder Patrick Pauuwe, who joined Feyenoord from Fortuna Sittard in 1998, has stated that he is not satisfied with his position as Feyenoord's new left-back. Talking on Feyenoord's website Pauuwe said: "Of course I will play where the trainer wants me to play and I will always give 100 percent, it's just frustrating that I cannot be of addition value. My specific qualities lay in the center of midfield."

Newcastle target Feyenoord's Emerton

17 Feb 2003

Feynoord's Australian midfielder Brett Emerton, who has been trying to secure a move to the Premier League for the past two seasons could finally be on his way this summer after Sir Brian Robson's Newcastle United have stated that they are expecting to secure his signature. According to the brittish weekly newspaper "The Sunday Sun"Emerton's fine  performance during Australia's 3-1 defeat of England last week has rekindled Newcastle's interest in the player and they are now prepared to offer Feyenoord three million pounds. Emerton's current contract runs out in 2004 and Feyenoord are planning totalks Emerton for a contract extention. According to the 'Sunday Sun"Emerton will refuse Feyenoord's offer, meaning they will have to cash in on him this year. Emerton said: "I'm disappointed I didn't get to go to England last year, It's important I perform well, because if I do, I think the chance will be there to move abroad in the future."

Jorge Acuña ready for Feyenoord

14 Feb 2003

Feyenoord's new signing Jorge Acuña is back in Holland after waiting in his home country Argentina for the necessary work permit. After Acuña's December trials Feyenoord were quick to swoop on the player and then allowed the him to return to his native country to await until his work-permit and other papers were issued.  Acuña, who arrived on Wednesday has immediately impressed coach Bert van Marwijk during his first training with the club on Thursday morning. The coach stated that both Acuña's condition and mentality were perfect and that Acuña was now already to join Feyenoord's first team.

NAC hire Collen from Feyenoord

12 Feb 2003

Feyenoord have lent defender 22 year old defender Pieter Collen to NAC for the rest of the season. Collen, who has just recovered from a serious knee injury, has only managed four first team appearances for Feyenoord and welcomes the chance to move to NAC where he hopes to see more first-team action.

Dutch FA concerned about youth injuries

12 Feb 2003

Dutch FA doctor Han Inklaar has stated that he is very concerned about the number of young players suffering from knee injuries. The Dutch FA (KNVB) has inventoried the injuries of young players at 36 professional clubs. During the preparations for young Holland's friendly match against South Korea, Inklaar is faced with nine under 21 youth players with serious, long-term injuries including three very serious knee injuries. 19 yeay old Johny Heitinga (Ajax) and 21 year old  Ruud Knol (Vitesse, 21) have already been recuperating for nearly a year with knee injuries and it is also expected that the knee injury from 19 year old Vitesse players Nicky Hofs will probably also take a year to heal. With Louis Laros and Mamadou Zongo, Vitesse are also faced with two over 21 players with long-temr knee injuries   Inktar is very concerned with the increasing number of 13 and 14 year old players suffering from long term injuries and has blamed a lack of funds at schools and cutbacks in physiotherapy costs at clubs  as the foremost reasons for the increase in injuries. Due to a decrease in physical exercise lessons at school youth players are lacking condition.  Experienced older players are being disposed of and are more often than not replaced with cheaper, younger players, who are not quite up to the weekly battles. The Dutch FA also believes that new designs in football-boots and training shoes could also explain the high rise in the number of injuries over the fast past few years. Vitesse technical director Jan Streuer said: "I used to be football-boot retailer and I know how exactly how that works. Every year a new boot is designed but if that means a better design remains to be seen. I still think that the old six stud Adidas boots are the best."

Feyenoord win Reebok court case

12 Feb 2003

Feyenoord have won their court case against sponsor Reebok and can now expect a financial settlement that will run into several million euros. Feyenoord took Reebok to court after the sports-equipment firm withdrew from a sponsor agreement at the very last minute. Feyenoord felt that Reebok should have honored the contract and so the club began a lengthy six year court battle. The exact sum that Reebok will have to pay will be decided at a later date.

Nam il Kim receives permit & mocks media

10 Feb 2003

Feyenoord's new Korean talent Nam-il Kim has finally received his work permit and has now only to wait for his visa which is expected to arrive later this week- making him eligible to play professional football in Holland.  It is expected that Kim will arrive next Monday in Holland and will immediately join Feyenoord's sister club Excelsior where he will remain for the rest of the season. Kim will undoubtedly be able to secure a first team place at Excelsior and thus have more chance of earning a move to Feyenoord in the summer if he can conjure up his talents and impress van Marwijk. Nam-il Kim stated that he was very glad to get the chance to prove his abilities at Ere Divisie club Excelsior and that media reports in Korea suggesting otherwise were totally untrue.

Van Persie knocks AGOVV out of Dutch Cup

06 Feb 2003

Feyenoord's Robin van Persie knocked amateur side AGOVV single handedly out of the Dutch FA Cup with a one man show after scoring five goals in Feyenoord's 6-1 home win. Anthony Lurlingd the score for Feyenoord just one minute before the break and Van Persie netted for the 2-0 half time score just one minute later. In the second half Van Persie scored four more goals before Julian netted a consolation goal 4 minute before the final whistle.

Feyenoord strengthen Asian ties

05 Feb 2003

Feyenoord, who already have three Asian players in their squad are continuing to broaden their interest in the Far East after agreeing a partnership deal on Tuesday with Japanese telecom giant NTT/DoCoMo. Feyenoord are also to play a number of friendly matches in Asia this Summer against Shinji Ono's, Song Chong-gug's and Kim Nam-il's former clubs who are all currently under contract with Feyenoord

Groningen sign Brian Pinas

05 Feb 2003

Feyenoord's 25-year-old winger Brian Pinas who is currently on load at sister club Excelsior has put pen to paper on a three year deal with Groningen and will be joining the club at the end of the season. On Feyenoord's website Pinas stated: 'Groningen is a wonderful club with fantastic fans. Moreover they really wanted me and that  is very important for me, I have a good feeling'

Feyenoord & Van Hooijdonk remain quiet

02 Feb 2003

Feyenoord and Pierre van Hooijdonk have still not been able to reach an agreement concerning the strikers contract extention. Although both parties have stated that they intend to continue the relationship, talks earlier this week have not resulted in a define new term. Both van Hooijdonk and Feyenoord have refused to comment on the issue. With the transfer window now closed speculation, gossip and rumours about a transfer can prevail until the transfer window re in the Summer.

Feyenoord sign player frrom Qatar

01 Feb 2003

Feyenoord have managed to sign defender Meshal Mubarek Budawood who is now playing in Qatar.The Rotterdammers decided to pounce before the transfer window closed last night. Feyenoord have been tracking the 20 year old's progression for some time now and were present during the Asian Under-20 Championship. It's Feyenoord's intensions to hire the youngster until the end of the season and if the player proves his worth then he will be offered a contract.

Feyenoord target Chinese Yu Tao

31 Jan 2003

Feyenoord looks set to pounce on another Asian talent after being reported to have invited Chinese international Yu Tao to the club for trials. Yu Tao stated that their hasn't been any contact as of yet with Feyenoord but that the prospect of being given the chance to earn a contract with the UEFA cup holders excited him. He said: "I have not heard anything about Feyenoord wanting me, but I personally would really like to play for them. However, it is a decision that I cannot decide myself. The most important thing is that both clubs can come to an agreement."

Feyenoord sign Kim Nam-Il

29 Jan 2003

Although Feyenoord trainer Bert van Marwijk said he was not impressed with Chun-Nam Dragons Kim Nam-il during recent trails with the club he has decided to offer the talented Korean international a contract.  The Rotterdammers will be stalling Kim Nam-il for a year with sister club Excelsior with the hope that with regualr football he can develop into a first team player.

Feyenoord and Van Hooijdonk in crunch talks

29 Jan 2003

Pierre van Hooijdonk will be meeting Feyenoord president Jorien van den Herik on Monday to battle out his future. Although Feyenoord have denied the rumours of a move to Manchester City, Kevin Keegan has once more stated in the media that he will be approaching Feyenoord with an offer. Van Hooijdonk has stated that he is dissatisfied that Feyenoord are lagging so far behind PSV and Ajax and wants assurances that they will to better next season which will mean buying new players.

Feyenoord complete Jorge Acuna signing

29 Jan 2003

Feyenoord have completed the signing of Jorge Acuna from Universidad Catolica, following a successful trial at De Kuip. The Chilean midfielder, who has been on trial with the club for the past two weeks, has impressed the trainer Bert van Marwijk with his performances and attitude during the friendly matches with Celtic and Sturm Graz. Feyenoord will pay €1 million for the 24 year old midfielder.

De Graafschap hire Feyenoord's Leonardo 2

28 Jan 2003

Feyenoord is back to having only one Leonardo after disposing of Leonardo 2 to De Graafschap for the rest of the season. The Brazilian midfielder who still has 1½ years left on his contract, has sat on Feyenoord's bench a little to long and is hoping that he will be able to secure a first team place with the "Super Farmers".

Van Hooijdonk and Feyenoord resume talks

27 Jan 2003

Pierre van Hooijdonk, who was expecting to round off his contract extension this month is still waiting for the deal to be finalized. Coach Bert van Marwijk, who has already informed Feyenoord's board that he wants to hold onto P'Air, has asked the board to make haste with their decision. Van Hooijdonk will be discussing the matter with chairman Jorien van den Herik today. If the Dutch international cannot come to an agreement then he knows that there are several clubs waiting to pounce with Manchester City being the foremost candidate. Van Hooijdonk refuses to talk about the subject anymore stating: 'I'm sick and tired of all the speculations.' .  Meanwhile Feyenoord are believed to be in talks with  Dirk Kuijt agent Piet Buter. The Utrecht striker  is Feyenoord's main candidate to replace van Hooijdonk should the two parties fail to reach an agreement.

Robin van Persie scores 4 against Eagles

27 Jan 2003

Robin van Persie was Feyenoord's man of the match yesterday scoring four goals in Feyenoord's 7-0 win over Eerste Divisie club Go Ahead Eagles. Van Persie talents have never been doubted but the striker's conduct has often been a stand in the way for securing a first team place. In the past few months the young Feyenoorder has put an end to his caprioles and has concentrated on listening to trainer Van Marwijk. After yesterday's demonstration it would be surprising if van Persie doesn't secure a first team place for the rest of the season.

Van Marwijk not impressed with Nam Il-Kim

27 Jan 2003

Feyenoord trainer Bert van Marwijk was not so positive about South Korean talent Nam-il Kim who is currently on trial with the club. Kim played the first 55 minutes against the Eagles but could not cope with the level of play and had difficulty in adjusting to the tempo. On Dutch televisions's sport program 'Studio Sport' Feyenoord's trainer Van Marwijk said that he had not seen Kim do anything at all that had impressed him.

Feyenoord sign Japanese youth international

25 Jan 2003

According to the Dutch provincial daily newspaper "Het Rotterdams Dagblad" Feyenoord have managed to sign the Japanese youth international, Kikuchi. Kikuchi, who first wants to finish off his study before coming to Holand in the spring, will be stationed with Feyenoord's satellite club Excelsior to acclimatize to the Dutch way of Football.

Feyenoord to offer Jorge Acuña contract

24 Jan 2003

Jorge Acuña who is currently on trial with Feyenoord has made such a good impression on trainer Bert van Marwijk that he has given technical director Rob Baan, the green light to contract the Argentinean terrier. After having played in three freindlies Acuña has demonstrated that he has sufficient defensive qualities to merit a first team place.

Feyenoord beat Celtic 2-3

23 Jan 2003

Feyenoord's last preparations to the new season were rounded off last night with a 3-2 away win against Celtic.  Pierre van Hooijdonkd the score  with a free-kick in the 13th minute of the game. After Bonaventure Kalou had increased the score to 2-0 Celtic striker John Hartson reduced the gap to one goal, shooting in from close range. On the stroke of half time  Japanese wizard Shinji Onomade it 3-1 for the Rotterdammers. Although Momo Sylla made it 3-2 shortly after the break, Feyenoord remained the better of the two sides and had no problem in holding onto their lead.

Pierre denies City move

22 Jan 2003

Pierre van Hooijdonk has denied that he is about to make a move to Manchester City and has said that their have not been talks between Feyenoord and City. According to the English daily newspaper "The Mirror" Manchester City boss Kevin Keegan had targeted Pierre . Van Hooijdonk's agent Rob Jansen said: "Neither I nor Pierre have spoken to Manchester City and as far as I can see, all this talk is nothing more than rumour. Pierre has a meeting with the Feyenoord president at the end of the month at which he will discuss the possibility of a contract for the coming season. Pierre would prefer to stay with Feyenoord and overall we are quite relaxed about the situation." Although the reports in the The Mirror could be unfounded, Kevin Keegan has not denied that he would like to bring van Hooijdonk to the club.

Manchester City target Van Hooijdonk

21 Jan 2003

According to the English daily newspaper "The Mirror" Manchester City boss Kevin Keegan has targeted Pierre van Hooijdonk. Keegan is hoping that the Dutch international will prepared to make a return to the Premier League and team up with Nicolas Anelka. Keegan is still looking for a centre forward after the signing of Robbie Fowler failed to materialize. According to The Mirror, the talks between Van Hooijdonk and Manchester City have already began. Feyenoord have always stated that they intend holding on to van Hooijdonk and were planning to renegotiations with the player for a contract extension. However, if van Hooijdonk should decide to leave the club then Feyenoord may only demand a comparatively nominal transfer fee.

Kim Nam-il on trial with Feyenoord satellite

21 Jan 2003

Feyenoord how are currently testing Korean Kim Nam-il have sent him to their satellite club Excelsior for further trials according to Feyenoords website. Although the players has made an impression on Feyenoord's russian striker, Igor Korneev , Feyenoord would prefer to stall the Korean midfielder with Excelsior for a year were he can be molded. Kim, who saw a contract with Premier League side West Ham fall through due to communication problems, believes he has more chance in Holland to succeed than elsewhere, saying: "People in Holland do more to try and understand you and make you feel at home."

Van Wonderen keen Van Wonderen keen to stay at Feyenoord Van Wonderen keen to stay at Feyenoord Van Wonderen keen to stay at Feyenoord

20 Jan 2003

Feyenoord defender Kees Van Wonderen, whose contract runs out at the end of this season,  has stated that he is keen to sign a new contract extension with the club. It's expected that Feyenoord and van Wonderen, who are soon to commence talks, will reach an agreement in the not to distant future. Van Wonderen: "I have already pointed out that I want to stay with Feyenoord. It doesn't have to take months on my account."

Feyenoord trial for Korean Nam-il Kim

19 Jan 2003

Korean midfielder Nam-il Kim  is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Feyenoord's Song and PSV's Park and Lee by signing for a Dutch club. The Korean international, who plays for Chunnan Dragons, is set to visit Feyenoord for a ten day trial.  The 25 year-old is extremely popular in his native country and was part of Guus Hiddink's Korean Army that did so well during the last world cup. Nam-il Kim is a defensive midfielder who has developed under Hiddink. In Korea's national team Kim features in the middle alongside Yoo Sang Chul and dictates the pace of the team's play with the Kashiwa Reysol man.

Feyenoord win Maspalomas tournament

17 Jan 2003

Feyenoord have won the Maspalomas Tournament for the second year running after a convincing 2-1 win against German side  FC Nürnberg.  After a 0-0 half time score Nürnbergd the score.  Cacau snatched the ball from Feyenoord's new defender Gérard de Nooijer and lobbed beautifully behind keeper Lodewijks. Towards the end of the game Feyenoord began more and more to dominate and it was therefore no surprise when substitute Robin van Persie drew level. Feyenoord's man of the match Kalou made it 2-1 after rounding off a fine solo on the right flank with a hard shot.

Goalie Canon fails Feyenoord trial

16 Jan 2003

Feyenoord will not be contracting American goalie Joe Cannon who has been on trial with the Rotterdammers for the past week. Feyenoord's keepers trainer Pim Doesburg was impressed with the American goalkeeper of the year but believes that Canon is still lacking in a few vital areas. Canon will be returning with Feyenoord to Holland where he hopes to attract the attention of an Ere Divisie club.

Feyenoord no longer interested in Qu Bo

16 Jan 2003

Feyernoord have decided that they will not offer Chinese talent Qu Bo a contract. The former Young Player of the Year is one of China's most talented strikers but was unable to impress during his stay with the Rotterdammers. .Feyenoord's technical director Rob Baan flew off to Qatar to watch the striker in action for China during an international tournament. Baan stated that although Qu Bo was forced to withdraw with an injury after only 30 minutes of play, he still was not impressed with the players performance. With Feyenoord no longer being interested this couldthe path for Heerenveen who have also shown considerable interest in the striker.

Feyenoord in final Maspalomas tournament

15 Jan 2003

Feyenoord has reached the final of the international Maspalomas tournament on Tuesday after beating Austrian champions, Sturm Graz 3-1 . The Rotterdammers will now meet German side Nürnberg for the final this Thursday.  In last night's game Sturm Graz took the lead in the 30th minute but saw Feyenoord draw level just before the break after Belgian striker Buffel headed in from close range. In the second half Sturm were no match for Feyenoord and were soon 1-2 down after Pardo netted a Shinji Ono cross. A few minutes later Van Persie put the final score-line on the board. heading in a Emerton cross.

Feyenoord confirm interest for Cziommer

14 Jan 2003

Feyenoord have confirmed that they are interested in Twente's German midfielder Simon Cziommer. The talented player is a product of Twente's youth academy and has played for Twente for the past six years. Cziommer's, who's contract runs out at the end of this season has also attracted the interest of several foreign clubs.

Numan rules out move to Feyenoord

13 Jan 2003

Glasgow Rangers's Dutch international Arthur Numan has stated that if he indeed returns to Holland then he would only consider a move to PSV, thereby ruling out a possible move to Feyenoord. Numan's contract with the Rangers runs out at the end of this season and it is still uncertain if Numan will stay in Scotland, make a move to America or return home to his native homeland. Numan: "I can't say much about my future plans but I'm certainly not going to Feyenoord. If I should decide to return to Holland then there is only one option that I would consider, PSV. "

Feyenoord test American goalkeeper

11 Jan 2003

Although Feyenoord's goalkeeper problems looked to be resolved with the first two goalies back in training again, the club has still decided to test American keeper, Joe Cannon. The 28 year old goalie , who currently plays in the Major League Soccer by San Jose Earthquakes, was voted second best keeper in America in 2001. Cannon will join Feyenoord during their winter-break trip to the Canaries.

Feyenoord's goalkeepers resume training

11 Jan 2003

Feyenoord's goalkeepers problems finally seem to becoming to an end now that Patrick Lodewijks has resumed training.  Lodewijks is now sufficiently recovered from his injury that he is now able to make the trip with Feyenoord for their trainings camp on the Canaries.  Feyenoord trainer Bert van Marwijk believes that goalkeeper Edwin Zoetabier should also be able to commence training on Sunday.

Feyenoord test second Chilean

10 Jan 2003

Feyenoord have invited Chilean midfielder Jorge Acuña to Rotterdam to train with the squad for a week. If the 24 year player impresses then he could become the second Chilean in Feyenoord's team, after Sebastian Pardo.  Acuña, who is currently playing is his home country for Universidad Catolica, first attracted Feyenoords attention during Chili's friendly match against Andalusia. Jorge Acuña: "I never expected my dreams would be realized so soon. After gaining a first team place with Catolica in 2002 and winning the championship in the same year I was selected for Chili's national team. I believe that becoming an international has helped speed up my career."

Feyenoord target Naoya Kikuchi

09 Jan 2003

18 year old Japenese midfielder Naoya Kikuchi who has been on trial with Feyenoord since 14 December, has returned home to Japan. The right- midfielder is regarded as one of Japan's hottest properties and has already attracted the interest of Premier League side, Arsenal.  It is believed that Feyenoord will soon be offering the high-school league player a contract  and it is expected that he will then be stalled at Feyenoord's satelite club Excelsior, in order to gain more experience.

PSV and Feyenoord interested in Numam

07 Jan 2003

Both PSV and Feyenoord are reported to be interested in bringing Arthur Numan back to Holland. The 33 year old defender, who's contract with Glasgow Rangers runs out at the end of this season, wants to hear Rangers new offer this week before making a final decicion at the end of January.  Numan's agent Joop Korevaar, has already  spoken with his former club PSV about a possible move and has also spoken with Feyenoord's technical director, Rob Baan, in Decvember.  If Numan should decide to return to his native country then a reuniting with Guus Hiddink and PSV would seem more likely than a move to Rotterdam.

Feyenoord to let Rsaza go at end of season

07 Jan 2003

Feyenoord's Polish international Tomasz Rzasa has been told by the club that his contract that runs out at the end of the season will not be renewed.  Rzasa's who move to Feyenoord in the summer of 1999  began his career in Poland with KS Sokol Pniewy, helping the club rise from the third division to the top tier in consecutive seasons. In the season 1994/95, he made the switch to Swiss club Grasshoppers,  winning Swiss league titles in his first two season and gaining a place the UEFA Champions League. After subsequent spells with FC Lugano and BSC Young Boys, Rzasa made the switch to Feyenoord, where he enjoyed his best campaign to date in 2001/02. Rzasa received his first call up for Poland in 1994, and represented his country at the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals.

Feyenoord target Kuyt and Bosschart

07 Jan 2003

Feyenoord have confirmed that they are interested in Utrecht's midfielder Dirk Kuyt and Defender Arjan Bosschaart.  Kuyt joined Utrecht from amateur club Quick Boys, securing a regular place in the first team and becoming a favorite with Utrecht fans. The Dutch youth international finished third behind Christian Chivu in the voting for the Dutch league Player of the Year for 2001/02.  Youth international Pascal Bosschart played his first match for Utrecht at the age of 17 during the 1997/98 season and became a regular at left back two years later.

Galatasaray target PÁir van Hooijdonk

07 Jan 2003

Turkish club Galatasaray club have confirmed that they are interested in Dutch international Pierre van Hooijdonk who's contract with Feyenoord runs out at the end of the season. Galatasaray's technical director, Terim,  has stated that his club wil be contacting Feyenoord and hope totalks soon.

Feyenoord trial for Chinese striker

06 Jan 2003

According to Dutch daily newspaper Algemeen Dagblad", Feyenoord currently have the Chinese forward Qu Bo on trial and he will be given one week to impress the club. Qu Bo, who currently plays for Chinese club Quindao Beer, is thought to be the fastest striker in the Chinese-League. He gained plenty of recognition in his home country with a spectacular goal against the hosts at the 2001 FIFA World Youth Championships held in Argentina.  Ere Divisie club Heerenveen also targeted the player.

Emerton concerned about lack of interest

05 Jan 2003

Feyenoord's Australian midfielder Brett Emerton, who is currently spending the winter-break in his native Australia, has expressed his concern to the Australian newpaper 'Sydney Daily Telegraph'  about the lack of interest from the Premier League for his services. Emerton has always hoped of a dream transfer to the Premier League but has received no offers since the transfer window red at the start of the month. "I think my game suits the English game but I have to accept the transfer market is depressed and I must be patient. There's a slight chance something could happen but there's nothing concrete.

Feyenoord youth team reach final

05 Jan 2003

Feyenoord's youth team has made a good impression in Italy by reaching the finals of the prestigious youth tournament in Napoli after beating Napoli's youth side 1-0 and the Portugese youth team from Benfica 3-2.  Feyenoord's opponent in the final is not yet known but will emerge from the group which includes Salernitana, Atletico Madrid and Manchester United. The final will take place on Monday, preceded by the match Napoli v Ancona.

Feyenoord scout Chileans

03 Jan 2003

Feyenoord are currently scouting the 17 year old Chilean footballers, Juan David Moreno and Juan Camilo Grisales. According to the Feyenoord.netwerk.to. website, both players are currently under contract with Nacional Medellin and were spotted by Feyenoord's technical manager and scout, Rob Baan, last November.