Netherlands EURO 2024 Star Hailed For Rock Solid Defensive Display In Inter Milan Serie A Win Vs Empoli | OneFootball

Stefan de Vrij has won praise for his rock solid performance at the back for Inter Milan in yesterday’s Serie A win over Empoli.

Today’s print edition of Rome-based newspaper Corriere dello Sport, via FCInterNews, hail the Netherlands international for a tidy display in the heart of Inter’s back three.

De Vrij started at the heart of Inter’s defense for the third match in a row yesterday.

The 32-year-old had also played more than an hour in the role during the Nerazzurri’s Serie A victory away to Roma earlier this month.

Inter coach Simone Inzaghi has had little option but to continue selecting de Vrij in the position.

Francesco Acerbi picked up a thigh injury during the match against the Giallorossi.

Therefore, that has only left de Vrij as a natural option in the centre of the back three.

The former Lazio and Feyenoord defender’s physicality and man-marking ability have been key to Inter defending their penalty area in recent matches.

Stefan De Vrij Back To His Best In Inter Serie A Win Vs Empoli

In Inter’s last couple matches, de Vrij has not always been at his best.

The Dutchman struggled with his positioning at times in Sunday’s Serie A clash with Juventus. That went some way to explaining why Inter conceded four goals in the 4-4 thriller.

Even against Young Boys in the Champions League, de Vrij didn’t always find it easy against a pacey and mobile opposition forward line.

But yesterday, de Vrij had a real reference point.

The experienced defender had the task of marking Empoli striker Lorenzo Colombo.

And against the very tall, strong striker, it was always going to be a battle.

De Vrij came out on top in that battle.

The 32-year-old looked calm and composed, keeping things very quiet around the Inter penalty area.