Cruyff backs Rijkaard for Netherlands job

Johan Cruyff says he wants to see Frank Rijkaard take over as Netherlands coach for the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

The Netherlands suffered a disappointing Euro 2012 campaign, bowing out in the group stage following losses to Denmark, Germany and Portugal, prompting the resignation of coach Bert van Marwijk.

And Netherlands great Cruyff, 65, believes former Barcelona coach Rijkaard should now be handed the reins.

“Rijkaard has shown he dares to make radical choices when needed,” Cruyff told Voetbal International.

“The Dutch team must start again with a new staff and changes in the squad. Regarding the latter, it should be a mix of current internationals and younger talent.

“This process requires a lot of work to be performed by someone accustomed to this level, including some painful decisions. You must be looked up to as a coach and respected.

“Though I have not put a lot of thought into it, Rijkaard is the first name that comes to me. He would be a good choice.”

Rijkaard, who two La Liga titles and the Champions League during a five-year reign at Barcelona, has been in charge of the Saudia Arabia national team since June 2011.