Former Newcastle United striker Luuk De Jong has made quite the career for himself since his horrific loan spell on Tyneside – and he wants fans to know that.
The 33-year-old joined the Magpies in January 2014, making his debut in a derby day defeat to Sunderland. He only played 12 games for Newcastle, but since leaving has made a name for himself across Europe.
Last night, he scored PSV’s equaliser in their Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund, netting his 28th of the season against our former Group F rivals.
De Jong was informed that he ranked 75th on the Daily Mail’s 2017 list of worst-ever Premier League strikers – his reply: “Really? When I only played 12 matches and not all of them from the start? And not in my position, either? Oh well, that’s the football world, you know.
“I was young. I think I am better armed now to take on Premier League defenders. It’s about your response to adversity – that makes the difference. I never gave up. I always kept working hard and I think I am the best version of myself now.”
“I had to replace midfielder Yohan Cabaye, who went to PSG. I usually played behind the striker, which is not my favourite position. We were often pushed back very far; I barely got to the goal. I knew that beforehand but you don’t say ‘no’ when you get a chance in the Premier League at such a beautiful, big club. I would have liked to show more.”
De Jong signed for PSV in 2014, where he went on to score 94 goals in 159 appearances. Earning himself a move to Sevilla in 2019. He scored 10 goals during his time there including a brace against Inter Milan in the Europa League final, he was also named in the squad of the tournament.
He returned to PSV in 2022 and is loving life back in the Eredivisie. Since returning to the Lampen, he has scored 48 goals in 74 appearances in all competitions.
