New Feyenoord signing under fire after dramatic Champions League night | OneFootball

Feyenoord beat Fenerbahce 2-1 last night in a dramatic first leg of Champions League qualifying. The first clash in the third round saw a Quinten Timber goal cancelled out late on by Sofyan Amrabat, before Anis Hadj Moussa rose heroically to nod in a Jordan Bos cross in the 91st minute.

However, after the jubilation subsided amongst the fanbase, the Rotterdammers’ blunt critical thought had time to manifest around new signing Sem Steijn. Steijn, who was brought in this summer as a promising goal-scorer from midfield and immediately appointed captain, was the target of criticism from a large part of the Legion.

In the first half, when Feyenoord were playing convincingly, there were sceptical voices about Steijn’s performance. Former midfielder Willie Overtoom noted that things were “going a bit too fast for Steijn and Ayase Ueda” before the interval.

As Fenerbahçe came more into the game in the second half, the tone became harsher. “Steijn simply can’t do anything,” wrote one fan. Another responded: “Steijn is at a minimum at this level. Now it requires more than just clever free play. You also need to be able to handle the ball!”

Supporters were particularly annoyed by his lack of presence in midfield and his lack of possession. “Look at how Steijn is walking. Not a decent touch or a proper pass. And captain? What a joke,” one player said sharply. Another added: “Steijn runs too much towards the ball and with it. You should pick up your man, not run with the ball.”

That he was appointed captain of the team by Robin van Persie is surprising. “Why would you make Steijn captain if you’re not even sure if he’ll play?” one supporter wondered. Another was more blunt: “They’re laughing their heads off at FC Twente.”

While Steijn received the most criticism, there were also concerns about other players. Up front, centre forward Ueda once again looked out of his depth. “Ueda is such a weak link. Get a striker,” was a frequent refrain. “We’ll play with 10 men as long as he’s still there.” The Japanese striker was again criticised for being unable to hold onto the ball or be available for a pass. “Ueda really likes to eat grass,” someone cynically remarked.

Leo Sauer, while energetic in the first half, also completely regressed in the second. “Sauer can’t handle this level yet,” he repeatedly said. “His tank is simply empty after 60 minutes.” Supporters clamoured for a substitution, which was made after 61 minutes by Robin van Persie. With Fenerbahce hosting the second leg, the new signings will either have to adapt quickly or face rotation, as Jose Mourinho has hinted at a ferocious atmosphere in Istanbul.

GBeNeFN | Max Bradfield