Back to the Premier League Newsfeed

'They are fighting machines' - Koeman wary of Northern Ireland threat

Ronald Koeman warned his Netherlands players that Euro 2020 qualification rivals Northern Ireland are "fighting machines" and will "get you by the throat" if given the chance.

Netherlands are third in Group C, three points behind second-placed Northern Ireland but with a game in hand ahead of the sides' clash on Thursday.

Victory at Feyenoord Stadium would move Koeman's side level with Michael O'Neill's side as well as leaders Germany on 12 points.

Editors' Picks

But the former Southampton and Everton boss warned that beating Northern Ireland - who won four consecutive qualifying matches before their 2-0 defeat at home to Germany in September - would not come easily.