Roefs, Brobbey and Geertruida - the Dutch view

Dutch football expert Michael Statham has given the lowdown on Sunderland's Netherlands internationals Robin Roefs, Brian Brobbey and Lutsharel Geertruida before they take part in this summer's World Cup.

On goalkeeper Roefs, he said: "When Robin Roefs broke through at NEC Nijmegen you could see he would be a big talent. He had big shoes to fill because Jasper Cillessen was there as well.

"Roefs usurped him and he was a fantastic shot-stopper from the get go. NEC would have loved to keep hold of him but the high fee they received from Sunderland was something the club were not used to.

"The Netherlands are excited about him and there was a lot of talk that he could be the number one goalkeeper going into the World Cup when Mark Verbruggen wasn't playing at this best. But, he's going to be an able deputy. People can be really confident that he will have a good future."

On forward Brobbey, who scored seven goals in his debut season in England: "I have been a big fan of Brian Brobbey since he broke through at Ajax and playing in the youth teams way above his age. His hold up play and strength is fantastic. I can see why Sunderland fans have been impressed with him.

"To move to the ultimate top level in Europe he needs more parts to his game. He has only had one season of being a regular goalscorer. He hasn't yet forced himself into being the Netherlands' number nine and there are not too many options. I just think he has to go to another gear. He's a confidence player but deep down he did feel that pressure with Ajax in his last season."

And on the versatile Geertruida, whose future is uncertain after his loan from RB Lepzig, Statham added: "He is not someone who speaks very often to the media but he is very personable on the pitch and is someone who can get fans onside and be likeable.

"He's played a multitude of positions with Sunderland this season, right-back, left-back and midfield, and he fills a lot of gaps. He's improved a lot from his time in Germany where he struggled and I think a permanent move would suit him. Sunderland are going to need lots of players next season for Europe and Geertruida would be a really good move. I think it would suit him as well and he would like that."

Listen to the full chat below or on BBC Sounds