Crysencio Summerville: I Feel Like a Son of Suriname, But Playing for the Netherlands Was the Right Choice

Crysencio Summerville's international allegiance was a topic of debate just a few months ago, but the winger's decision to represent the Netherlands at the World Cup is proving to be a masterstroke for both the player and the nation.

The Rotterdam-born attacker was on the radar of Suriname, as the former South American Dutch colony pursued its debut at the global finals through the inter-confederation playoffs in March. However, an injury prevented Summerville from making an immediate choice between his birth country and that of his parents. Once it became clear that coach Ronald Koeman wanted him for the Netherlands, the 24-year-old made his decision.

“This is a decision where both emotion and reason play a role. It's also a choice for life. I discussed it extensively with my family and closest confidantes,” the winger explained.

“I have always played for the Netherlands' youth national teams. But I also feel like a son of Suriname. Every holiday, I try to go there and... a large part of my family lives there. When I step off the plane, I tell myself I'm home again,” Summerville told “Voetbal International” magazine.