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‘Sloppy’: 26-year-old defender Chelsea could reportedly bid for criticised by national media after World Cup display

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Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries has received criticism from Football Oranje following Netherlands’ final group game of the World Cup.

The Dutch side were victorious over Qatar, however the 2-0 win failed to excite or encourage many regarding their chances at making waves at this tournament.

Three group stages matches have seen Louis van Gaal’s side pick up seven points, although not all players have come in for praise.

Netherlands v Qatar: Group A - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
Photo by Pablo Morano/BSR Agency/Getty Images

Matthijs de Ligt, who was strongly linked with a move to Stamford Bridge over the summer, received his share of criticism for his display in the opener against Senegal. He is yet to feature since that game.

Now though, it appears Dumfries is next to be called out for an underwhelming performance.

Despite the low standard of opposition, Football Oranje claimed his inability to keep possession and create chances was a real negative.

Dumfries disappoints for Netherlands

They said: “Once again Dumfries did not reach the level we expect from him in a Netherlands shirt. Sloppy in possession and not able to create anything despite getting into some decent positions.”

The 26-year-old has been strongly linked with a move to Chelsea since way before the summer transfer window opened.

It was reported yesterday that the Blues have the financial capabilities to make an offer that the Serie A side couldn’t turn down, potentially opening up the possibility of a transfer.

AC Milan v Chelsea FC: Group E - UEFA Champions League
Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images

The deal would likely be in an attempt to find suitable cover if Reece James suffers another injury.

Graham Potter has struggled to find a viable replacement for the England international since he was forced off at the San Siro.

This has seen the Blues become a lot weaker, and even though James is expected to be back when Premier League football returns after Christmas, there is plenty of work for them to do to claw back a respectable finish this season.